Many of these questions can be answered by the size of the utility.  If the utility is small then funds are limited so the possibility of a computerized maintenance system might be out of reach.  If the utility is large then funds might be more readily available but tracking asset costs might be more difficult.

Whether the facility is small or large the best way to determine your asset management program is to keep it basic and simple.

Here are key questions the utility’s asset team should answer before starting the AM program:

1. What are you doing now?  Determine what you are doing to record repairs or replacements on the utilities’ current equipment.  What can be done to improve the records?
    
2. What assets does the utility want to track?  Tracking critical or major pieces of equipment is important but does the utility really have to track small equipment that is not critical or has small price tags.
    
3. How can the utility plan for replacing assets in the future?  A Capital Improvement Plan, usually a five year program, provides a list of equipment that will be replaced or purchased because of necessity, needs or equipment is old. This CIP will list the cost and year that the planned purchase will be needed so future budgets can be prepared and planned.
    
4. What staff does the utility have to implement the Asset Management Program?  A small utility might not have the resources to implement a major program.  A large utility might have many people involved in the creation of the asset program, which could be a problem.
    
5. Is management in favor of the program? If the Executive Management of the utility does not want the program then any changes that would be needed will not be supported. This would create frustration. 

As you can see from the questions above this is not a complicated program to implement.  However, it could be very frustrating as you continue the program and some basic questions have not been answered.  I have been involved with asset management for many years and know the highs and lows of implementing a program.  Let us know of any questions or problems you might have regarding your program.

Written by:  Joseph LaPlante, NEWEA Asset Management Committee; Narragansett Bay Commission O&M Support Supervisor