It doesn't have to be this way. Feeding the sensor data into predictive analytical models can help separate the true problems from the false positives, surface the highest-priority alerts first and help factories customize maintenance schedules to the way a piece of equipment is used. One-size-fits-all maintenance schedules can cost money, either because too much maintenance is performed or equipment is breaking down from lack of attention because the production environment varies from what the equipment's manufacturer assumed.

Predictive asset maintenance can play a critical role in extending the life of useful equipment in a cost-effective and energy-efficient manner. Many industries, utilities, oil and gas extraction and refining, and capital-intensive manufacturing are either investigating this avenue or deploying programs today.

What are Companies Waiting For?

Going green in a way that strategically and positively affects the bottom line requires a holistic approach that measures all initiatives, looks at their costs, analyzes different options and provides companies with a fresh view of their operations. Sustainability isn't a strategy for fat times -- it is one that can help companies through the lean times as well. If it is a real business case with real value, it makes sense to do it now not later. If you have been thinking of going green, get analytical to get the results that win with all stakeholders.

Michael Newkirk is a Product Marketing Manager for SAS in Cary, N.C. SAS is a leader in business intelligence applications with particular expertise in data quality and analytics. http://www.sas.com/

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