SAP predictive maintenance and service 

The landscape of maintenance strategies is rapidly evolving. While corrective and planned maintenance have long been standard practice, new approaches are now reshaping the field. 

Evolving maintenance strategies: from corrective to condition-based 

Corrective maintenance is performed only after an asset fails, often resulting in costly and unpredictable downtimes. In contrast, planned maintenance follows a set schedule – based on time or usage intervals, regardless of the asset’s actual condition, which can lead to unnecessary interventions.  

In response, many companies are shifting toward condition-based maintenance, a smarter approach that improves availability while lowering costs. Maintenance activities are scheduled based on the actual condition of the asset, ensuring interventions are carried out only when truly necessary. 

This method relies on real-time data from sensors integrated in machines, systems, tools, and vehicles to assess the condition of assets. The analyzed data then empowers asset managers to make informed decisions about if and when maintenance or repairs are needed. As a result, unexpected failures have become significantly less frequent, and maintenance can be planned with greater precision. 

Looking to the future: the predictive maintenance strategy 

Predictive maintenance goes a step further by using real-time data to anticipate when and what type of faults may occur.  

To generate accurate forecasts, it combines sensor data with information from additional sources. Advanced algorithms then process this vast dataset in real time, enabling proactive and precise maintenance planning. 

Opportunities with SAP Predictive Maintenance and Service for operators and service providers 

Predictive maintenance brings significant advantages for asset operators. By reducing unplanned downtime, it allows maintenance to be better synchronized with production schedules, technician availability, and the timing and cost of spare parts procurement. 

Manufacturers and third-party maintenance providers also benefit strategically. By offering predictive capabilities, they can differentiate themselves in the market and gain a competitive edge, at least for the time being. 

But now the key question is: How can predictive maintenance be implemented effectively? SAP answers this with Predictive Asset Insights (SAP PAI) – formerly known as SAP Predictive Maintenance & Service (SAP PdMS). This powerful solution is available in both on-premise and cloud versions. 

Key features and core functionalities of SAP Predictive Asset Insights (SAP PAI)  

• Visualization of health status: asset display at a component level with drill-down capabilities 
  • Machine learning content: reconfigured for technical assets 
• Derived signals management: e.g. via KPIs, alerts and health scores 
• 2D and 3D charts as well as map views 
  • Closed-loop integration: seamless integration with maintenance and service processes 
• Full flexibility in loading and saving machine data 
• Software Development Kit (SDK): allows you to customize the maintenance solution using tailored algorithms and user interfaces 
• Fingerprint management: visual approach used to record and compare reference states of assets to their current performance  
• Indicator forecasting: calculation and visualization of trends to inform maintenance decisions 
  • Advanced rules-based alert creation: self-learning capabilities to assess asset health and predict failures 
  • Leading indicator analysis: AI-based identification of critical failure and fault indicators 
• Failure mode analytics: machine-learning-generated KPIs on failure modes 
• Failure curve analytics: help determine the remaining useful lifespan and visualize failure curves using Weibull distribution and maintenance records 

Who benefits from predictive maintenance – and how? 

Predictive maintenance delivers value across a wide range of industries – from manufacturing and logistics to energy suppliers. By adopting data-driven maintenance strategies, companies can reduce downtime, cut maintenance costs, and extend the operational life of their equipment. Our short explainer video offers a clear and concise overview of how predictive maintenance works, who it’s for, and the tangible advantages it brings.  

Discover how this forward-thinking approach can help transform your business operations!