Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Maintenance Software--Plan Ahead to Maximize CMMS Vendor Web Site Visits

For those looking for a computer maintenance management system (CMMS) vendor, the Web is often the first place to start. There are a number of web site features one should examine in order to maximize web site visits.

The more you feel warm and fuzzy about a company through its web site, the more likely you're going to explore it further. Unfortunately, not all computer maintenance management system (CMMS) vendor web sites are the same. The first potential turn-off is home page response times. If it takes longer than a few seconds to get something on screen, users get anxious. That's why most sites bring up at least a title, framework, and some basic text followed by the progressive filling of empty spaces with buttons, graphics, and further text. The entire process should take only under a minute. Once the entire screen has materialized, users can explore the numerous links. Some sites will show sub-categories as you move the cursor over the main headings.

One interesting feature that has become quite popular on CMMS web sites is a ticker-tape window that provides eye-catching news, such as a recent strategic alliance, record earnings for the quarter or a new customer. By double-clicking, you can get more details on any of these items. Some web sites have click-boxes that provide full audio or video clips from a user conference or speech from a key executive. At the bottom of the opening screen, almost all web sites provide contact information and a link to the web master's email address. Here's what else to look for.

Site map

Many sites provide a roadmap or index that shows the web site hierarchy. It's a sophisticated version of a table of contents, which is accessible from any screen on the web site. By clicking the headings and subheadings on the map, you're catapulted to that particular section of text.

About the company
The section describing information about the company will often present history, philosophy, policies, values, strategy, a general description etc.. If the CMMS vendor is a multinational, then multiple locations are provided, including contact information. In some cases, each country operates its own linked site. Any resellers or distributors should also be listed. Public companies often provide their annual reports.

Products and services

CMMS vendors use different approaches to present their products and services on the Internet. Some use screen shots to illustrate different features and functions, while others use text only. Many vendors offer users the option to download an electronic brochure or video clip that provides greater detail. Larger CMMS vendors offer specific information for a given vertical market, such as utilities, oil and gas or mining.

Help desk
The electronic help desk gives users the ability to inquire about specific problems, without queuing on the telephone. Usually a response is received within twenty-four hours.

Software updates
Every software company should provide information about known bugs in each version of its software. Some CMMS vendors reduce their distribution costs by encouraging users to download developed fixes, while others prefer handling the process themselves.

Discussion database
Discussion databases are handy and allows users and CMMS vendors to share tips about getting the most out of a CMMS application and traps that should be avoided. Tips and traps can be general or product-specific. Some vendors supplement this section with an "ask the experts" service that uses external expertise.



source
http://www.technologyevaluation.com/research/articles/maintenance-software-plan-ahead-to-maximize-cmms-vendor-web-site-visits-17192/

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