The reduction in plant maintenance costs using creative problem-solving principles

The paper considers the application of creative problem-solving (CPS) principles to the reduction of plant maintenance costs. A brief description of CPS principles and methods is first given. Three case studies are then described that illustrate the use of CPS on problems at plant and machine levels, by different group compositions and on problems of different types. A review of experience of the use of CPS methods by maintenance engineers trained in their use is also given. It is concluded that CPS is a valuable approach that may be used effectively to identify causes of maintenance problems and to find solutions to particular problems of diverse kinds that incur maintenance costs.