A maintenance research project is being conducted to establish an operating, modern maintenance management system in the Louisiana department of highways. The project started in September 1965, and will be completed in June 1969. During the early stages of the project, the main emphasis was placed on data collection and analysis to document existing practices of the department and to define those areas where improvement could be made. A pilot reporting system was established in one district for a year. Field trips were made to observe the crews at work. Data analysis showed wide differences in performance from management unit to management unit. These variations were summarized in terms of quality, quantities of work, and productivity. It was concluded that better management practices were needed. The key elements involve performance standards, planning and budgeting and developing management procedures for superintendents. Consultants' expanded research involved the following phases: (1) to develop and test a maintenance work reporting system, (2) to conduct a performance laboratory for the research and testing of maintenance methods and procedures, (3) to form a standards panel for observing and evaluating operations and for developing quality and productivity standards, (4) to develop a comprehensive maintenance management system, and (5) to develop and test training procedure and training materials appropriate for maintenance personnel. The reporting system has been in successful operation for a year and is well accepted by maintenance personnel. An annual maintenance work plan has been prepared. A one gang concept was developed for all operations and has resulted in saving of better manpower utilization over the specialized gang concept. Various management reports are being prepared. The reporting system is working satisfactorily. Procedures are being developed for preparing the district annual maintenance budget on the basis of performance standards.
Abstract