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Do we still need standards – or are modern CMMS systems with built-in standards and best practices already enough? The world of maintenance is shaped by a multitude of norms and standards that aim to regulate processes, ensure safety, and maintain quality. But the question arises: Is this jungle of regulations really necessary, or could modern CMMS systems, with their built-in standards and best practices, serve a similar – if not better – purpose? 

The Case for Standards 

Standards such as DIN EN 13306 or DIN EN 15341 establish uniform definitions and measure maintenance performance. They ensure that companies operate on a common foundation, which is essential in highly regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, or public infrastructure. Standards also serve as binding frameworks and provide legal certainty, particularly in high-risk industries. 

However, standards also have their weaknesses: 

• Complexity: The sheer number of standards often leads to confusion and administrative burden. Small and medium-sized enterprises are frequently overwhelmed. 
• Rigid requirements: Standards are often inflexible and may not always meet the dynamic needs of modern companies. 

The Case for CMMS Systems 

Modern CMMS solutions are far more than just software — they provide standards and best practices that have already proven themselves in practice. With predefined workflows, checklists, KPI analyses, and role-based access controls, they enable companies to work efficiently and safely without in-depth knowledge of formal standards. A CMMS automatically integrates many of the requirements from standards, making them invisible to the user. 

Advantages of a CMMS

• Automation: CMMS systems ensure compliance with many standards through automated processes such as maintenance planning, documentation, and reporting. 
• Flexibility: Unlike rigid standards, CMMS systems adapt to the individual needs of a company. 
• Cost savings: Instead of costly standard certifications, CMMS systems rely on agile implementation and continuous updates, offering a more economical solution. 

Relevant Standards and Their Compliance with the osapiens CMMS 

The osapiens CMMS supports companies in complying with key maintenance standards by integrating best practices and providing a user-friendly platform. Here are a few examples of how specific standards are addressed by the osapiens CMMS: 

Conclusion: Are standards redundant? 

The answer isn’t black and white. While standards provide an important foundation, their overregulation can often be a hindrance in practice. A well-implemented CMMS can take over many of the functions defined by standards – and often execute them more efficiently. However, there remains a risk that without the binding clarity of standards, critical aspects such as occupational safety, liability, and regulatory compliance could be overlooked. 

What’s needed, therefore, isn’t necessarily fewer standards, but better ones – standards that recognize CMMS systems as valid frameworks and best practices, creating a more pragmatic and future-ready foundation.