You can dramatically reduce downtime by implementing "best practices" strategies for planning repairs. Let's look at some that you may be able to put to use.
Training is an obvious one, but are you doing it in a way that actually reduces downtime? Some companies try to save money by sending someone from management to go take the training and "bring it back." This practice is called "train the trainer," but a more apt name is "waste the training funds."
You should send the field technicians instead, because the people who actually work on the equipment:
- Have an experiential framework on which the training can "stick."
- Can ask specific questions directly related to your installation.
- Are likely to use the training, thus reinforcing what they've learned.
The "train the trainer" person seldom does the things listed above. And to pass along the training, this person must have the time and a properly equipped classroom to train anyone else upon returning. Train the techs, not a "trainer."
