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Flevy Management Insights Q&A
What metrics are most effective for measuring the success of an EAM implementation?


This article provides a detailed response to: What metrics are most effective for measuring the success of an EAM implementation? For a comprehensive understanding of EAM, we also include relevant case studies for further reading and links to EAM best practice resources.

TLDR Effective EAM implementation success metrics include Overall Equipment Effectiveness, Mean Time Between Failure, Asset Utilization, Return on Assets, Maintenance Cost as a Percentage of Replacement Asset Value, Total Cost of Ownership, Maintenance Response Time, Work Order Completion Rate, and Compliance Metrics, driving improvements in reliability, financial health, and operational efficiency.

Reading time: 5 minutes


Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) systems are pivotal for organizations looking to optimize the lifecycle management of their physical assets. Effective EAM implementation can lead to significant improvements in asset reliability, maintenance costs, and operational efficiency. However, measuring the success of an EAM implementation requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses various key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics. Here, we delve into the most effective metrics for gauging EAM success, drawing on authoritative insights from leading consulting and market research firms.

Asset Reliability and Performance Metrics

One of the primary objectives of EAM is to enhance asset reliability and extend the useful life of equipment. Therefore, measuring asset reliability and performance is crucial. Metrics such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) are widely recognized for this purpose. OEE takes into account the availability, performance, and quality of an asset, providing a holistic view of its operational efficiency. MTBF, on the other hand, measures the average time between failures, offering insights into the reliability of the assets. According to Gartner, organizations that actively monitor and aim to improve their OEE and MTBF metrics can see a reduction in downtime by up to 30% and an increase in production efficiency by as much as 20%.

Furthermore, Asset Utilization is another critical metric, indicating how effectively an organization is using its assets to generate revenue. High asset utilization rates suggest that assets are being employed efficiently, contributing positively to the organization's bottom line. Conversely, low utilization rates may signal inefficiencies or underutilization of assets, highlighting areas for improvement. This metric, when tracked consistently, can guide strategic decisions regarding asset investments, retirements, and reallocations.

Real-world examples of companies excelling in asset reliability and performance metrics often hail from industries where asset management is critical, such as manufacturing, utilities, and transportation. For instance, a leading global manufacturer implemented an EAM system and focused on improving its OEE and MTBF metrics. Within a year, the company reported a 25% decrease in unplanned downtime and a 15% increase in production output, showcasing the tangible benefits of effective asset management.

Explore related management topics: Overall Equipment Effectiveness

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Financial Performance Metrics

Assessing the financial impact of an EAM implementation is essential for understanding its contribution to the organization's overall financial health. Cost savings from reduced maintenance and operational expenses are among the most direct indicators of EAM success. Metrics such as Return on Assets (ROA) and Maintenance Cost as a Percentage of Replacement Asset Value (RAV) provide valuable insights into the financial benefits of EAM systems. ROA measures the profitability relative to the organization's total assets, highlighting the efficiency in generating earnings from investments in assets. Maintenance Cost as a Percentage of RAV, recommended by industry experts like Accenture, helps organizations benchmark their maintenance spending against the value of their assets, promoting cost-effective maintenance strategies.

Another important financial metric is the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of assets, which includes acquisition costs, operating costs, maintenance expenses, and disposal costs. A successful EAM implementation should lead to a noticeable reduction in TCO by optimizing maintenance schedules, reducing unplanned downtime, and extending asset lifecycles. Tracking TCO over time can provide organizations with a clear picture of the financial benefits derived from their EAM strategies.

Companies in the energy sector, for example, have reported significant financial improvements by focusing on these financial performance metrics. A notable case is an energy company that reduced its maintenance costs by 20% and improved its ROA by 10% within two years of implementing a comprehensive EAM strategy, demonstrating the direct financial benefits of effective asset management practices.

Operational Efficiency and Compliance Metrics

Operational efficiency metrics such as Maintenance Response Time and Work Order Completion Rate are vital for measuring the success of EAM implementations. These metrics assess how quickly and effectively maintenance teams respond to and resolve issues, directly impacting asset uptime and reliability. Organizations striving for Operational Excellence should closely monitor these metrics to ensure that maintenance processes are both efficient and effective. Deloitte highlights the importance of integrating EAM systems with mobile technologies to improve the accuracy and timeliness of maintenance data, thereby enhancing these operational efficiency metrics.

Compliance with regulatory standards and industry benchmarks is another critical area where EAM can make a significant difference. Metrics related to Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) compliance, such as Incident Rate and Compliance Audit Scores, are essential for organizations in heavily regulated industries. A successful EAM system not only helps in maintaining high standards of asset performance but also ensures adherence to regulatory requirements, minimizing the risk of fines and reputational damage. Tracking these compliance metrics can provide insights into the effectiveness of EAM in managing regulatory risks.

An example of operational efficiency improvement through EAM is seen in the transportation industry, where a leading logistics company leveraged EAM to optimize its maintenance processes. By improving its Maintenance Response Time and Work Order Completion Rate by over 30%, the company achieved higher asset availability and reliability, significantly enhancing its service levels and customer satisfaction. Additionally, the company strengthened its compliance posture by using EAM to systematically address EHS requirements, demonstrating the multifaceted benefits of EAM beyond just asset management.

These metrics, encompassing asset reliability, financial performance, and operational efficiency, offer a comprehensive framework for organizations to measure the success of their EAM implementations. By focusing on these key areas, organizations can not only ensure the optimal performance of their assets but also contribute to their overall strategic goals and financial health.

Explore related management topics: Operational Excellence Customer Satisfaction

Best Practices in EAM

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EAM Case Studies

For a practical understanding of EAM, take a look at these case studies.

Asset Lifecycle Enhancement for Industrial Semiconductor Firm

Scenario: The organization is a leading semiconductor manufacturer that has recently expanded its production facilities globally.

Read Full Case Study

Omni-Channel Strategy for D2C Fashion Retailer in Europe

Scenario: A Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) fashion retailer in Europe is facing a strategic challenge in optimizing its enterprise asset management to sustain growth and profitability.

Read Full Case Study

Defense Sector Asset Lifecycle Optimization Initiative

Scenario: The organization is a provider of defense technology systems, grappling with the complexity of managing its extensive portfolio of physical assets.

Read Full Case Study

Digital Transformation Strategy for Online Education Platform

Scenario: An emerging online education platform is confronted with critical challenges in enterprise asset management, hindering its scalability and market competitiveness.

Read Full Case Study

Enterprise Asset Management for a Cosmetics Manufacturer in Europe

Scenario: A European cosmetics company is facing challenges in scaling its Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) to keep pace with rapid expansion and increased product demand.

Read Full Case Study

Strategic Growth Plan for Boutique Hotel Chain in Southeast Asia

Scenario: A boutique hotel chain in Southeast Asia is at a critical juncture, facing the challenge of optimizing its enterprise asset management to stay competitive.

Read Full Case Study


Explore all Flevy Management Case Studies

Related Questions

Here are our additional questions you may be interested in.

What emerging technologies are set to revolutionize EAM practices in the next decade?
Emerging technologies like IoT with Predictive Analytics, AI and ML, and Blockchain are revolutionizing EAM practices, optimizing Operational Excellence, Risk Management, and Performance Management. [Read full explanation]
How does EAM contribute to risk management and mitigation in asset-intensive industries?
EAM is crucial for Risk Management in asset-intensive industries by optimizing Lifecycle Management, enabling Strategic Asset Management for early risk identification, ensuring Operational Excellence, and supporting Compliance and Sustainability goals. [Read full explanation]
In what ways can EAM systems help in managing the lifecycle of digital assets, especially in industries heavily reliant on digital technologies?
EAM systems are indispensable for digital asset lifecycle management, enhancing Strategic Planning, Operational Excellence, and Risk Management, while optimizing performance and cost efficiency across industries. [Read full explanation]
What strategies can be employed to ensure EAM systems are resilient against cyber threats?
Protecting EAM systems against cyber threats involves implementing advanced cybersecurity measures, strategic planning and Risk Management, and a commitment to Continuous Improvement and Innovation to enhance system resilience and safeguard operations. [Read full explanation]
How is the integration of IoT devices transforming EAM practices?
IoT integration is revolutionizing Enterprise Asset Management by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and strategic asset lifecycle management, significantly improving efficiency and reducing costs. [Read full explanation]
How can process mapping enhance the asset lifecycle management in EAM?
Process mapping significantly improves Asset Lifecycle Management in EAM by identifying inefficiencies, enabling strategic interventions, and supporting Operational Excellence and Performance Management for optimized asset performance. [Read full explanation]
How does EAM facilitate better decision-making in asset disposal and replacement strategies?
EAM systems optimize asset management by providing enhanced visibility, predictive analytics for lifecycle management, cost reduction strategies, and strategic planning alignment, leading to improved decision-making in asset disposal and replacement. [Read full explanation]
How are digital twins being utilized within EAM to simulate and optimize asset performance?
Digital twins are transforming Enterprise Asset Management by enabling dynamic simulations for Predictive Maintenance, optimizing Asset Lifecycle Management, and promoting Innovation and Sustainability, leading to Operational Excellence. [Read full explanation]

Source: Executive Q&A: EAM Questions, Flevy Management Insights, 2024


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