For many maintenance teams, the story is all too familiar: Limited resources make it difficult to anticipate equipment failures, which leads to frequent, costly breakdowns. During these moments of crisis, miscommunication and disorganization only amplify the problem. This perpetuates the perception of maintenance as a mere cost center, making leadership even less likely to invest in the department.

These effects extend beyond the balance sheet. Poor morale, high turnover, and missed opportunities for strategic contributions are the unfortunate realities of underfunded maintenance teams. Yet, studies show that the potential benefits of a well-resourced maintenance department are immense. According to a McKinsey report, maintenance accounts for 20–40% of operating costs in heavy industries, and 30–50% of productivity losses resulting from equipment effectiveness. These figures not only highlight the challenges but also underscore the opportunity: With the right investments, maintenance can drive innovation and value.

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