In this post, we continue the theme of our previous blog: the use of artificial intelligence in maintenance operations. AI has quickly become a part of our daily lives and business activities. So, how to boost maintenance operations with AI? Below, we highlight a few more ways it can enhance the efficiency of maintenance companies.
AI-Based Resource Allocation and Scheduling
Allocating resources can be time-consuming in a maintenance company. Urgent tasks can arise unexpectedly, requiring someone nearby to respond quickly. By leveraging AI, companies can free up staff from manual coordination tasks. AI can also be used to plan maintenance workers’ schedules—ensuring balanced workloads and optimized driving routes, which not only saves time but also reduces environmental impact. On a site-specific level, AI can assess how maintenance needs are developing and suggest the appropriate level of resources for each location.
Weather-Responsive Work Planning
AI can monitor weather forecasts and adjust schedules and priorities accordingly. For example, it can suggest the optimal time for outdoor tasks. If it’s raining in the morning but sunny in the afternoon, AI can organize the day so that indoor work is done first, followed by outdoor tasks once the rain has passed. Considering weather conditions is especially important in winter, when snow ploughing and sanding take up a significant part of many maintenance workers’ days.
Data Integration Across Multiple Systems
Maintenance data is often scattered across various systems, Excel sheets, and even paper notes. Using AI to gather and consolidate this information is both practical and time-saving. For instance, AI assistants can extract relevant details from hundreds of emails. By combining data from customer service, fieldwork, and building systems, companies can gain a comprehensive overview of work quality. This helps identify recurring issues and opportunities for improvement.
AI-Assisted Quotation Calculation
AI can analyze past projects and automatically generate quotations for new clients. It also factors in aspects such as changes in general price levels and wage developments. AI assistants pay attention to even the smallest details, ensuring that nothing is left out of the quote, thus helping to avoid unpleasant surprises later on by including all essential elements in the cost calculation.
AI Reporting for Management
AI compiles administrative metrics, such as response times, customer satisfaction, and resource efficiency, into visual reports that support decision-making. It can also streamline reporting of work hours for maintenance staff. Instead of spending time collecting data, managers can focus on analyzing reports and planning actions to further improve operations.
The use of AI is a rapidly growing trend, with new applications emerging all the time. Learning to harness its potential now ensures your company stays ahead of the curve and remains competitive in the future.
