Article

Igniting the bottom line: How IFS Service & Maintenance tools transform the service industry 

Apr 09, 2025 · Authored by Joshua Flatla

Companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance their operational efficiency and drive profitability. One of the most effective strategies to achieve these goals is through the implementation of advanced service and maintenance tools. IFS, a global leader in enterprise software solutions, offers a suite of tools designed to revolutionize service management and maintenance processes. By leveraging IFS Service & Maintenance tools, such as Preventive Maintenance Programs, Structured Failure Management and Internet of Things (IoT) connections to customer assets, service companies can significantly improve their bottom line.

Preventive Maintenance (PM) Programs

Preventive Maintenance (PM) Programs are a cornerstone of effective service management. IFS Cloud provides robust PM functionality that allows maintenance regimes to be set against both functional objects and serial assets. PM actions can be date-based, event-based or condition-based, ensuring that maintenance tasks are performed at optimal intervals. This proactive approach minimizes downtime, reduces repair costs and extends the lifespan of assets. By implementing PM Programs, service companies can ensure that their equipment and facilities are always in top condition, leading to increased reliability and customer satisfaction.

Structured Failure Management (SFM)

Structured Failure Management (SFM) is another powerful tool offered by IFS. SFM enables companies to systematically identify and analyze failure modes within their systems. By linking corrective actions to failure modes, IFS allows for accurate defect identification and preparedness using Work Task Templates as corrective actions. This structured approach ensures that potential issues are addressed before they escalate, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. The ability to predict and prevent failures not only enhances operational efficiency but also boosts the company's reputation for reliability and quality service. Along with PM Programs, SFM can systematically manage your customers’ risk profiles through precise maintenance strategies.

IoT connections to customer assets

The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed the way service companies interact with their assets and customers. IFS leverages IoT technology to connect customer assets to the maintenance system, providing real-time data on asset performance and condition. IoT is the spark that ignites service industries to the next level through the enablement of PM Programs and SFM. This connectivity allows for remote monitoring, diagnostics and predictive maintenance, enabling service companies to respond swiftly to potential issues. By utilizing IoT connections, companies can offer more personalized and efficient services, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, the data collected through IoT can be used to optimize maintenance schedules and improve asset management strategies.

The ability of IFS Service & Maintenance tools to ignite the bottom line for the service industry is undeniable. By implementing PM Programs, SFM and IoT connections to customer assets, service companies can achieve significant improvements in operational efficiency, asset reliability and customer satisfaction. These tools reduce costs and downtime while enhancing the overall quality of service, driving profitability and growth. As the service industry continues to evolve, companies that embrace these advanced solutions will be well-positioned to lead the way in delivering exceptional value to their customers.

Joshua Flatla is an experienced manager within Baker Tilly’s Digital Solutions practice. He is a trained IFS Service & Maintenance consultant and a certified Strategic Improvement Black Belt. Josh leverages more than 25 years of industrial manufacturing and mining experience to provide best in class solutions and process design to his clients.