Integrated Maintenance Information System: An Imaginary Preview.

This paper describes how a typical maintenance technician in a few years might use a well-integrated maintenance information system. The system is envisioned as having a local base-level computer tied to a central computer at an Air Logistics Center. The local computer would provide information for shop intermediate-level and flight-line organization-level maintenance. It would drive on-the-job training as well as provide technical data for performance of maintenance tasks and accomplish many record-keeping tasks. An on-board computer also would be used in conjunction with up-to-date information provided by the local and the central computers. Special provisions would be made to assure the acceptability and useability of the system to the technician. If such a system is to materialize, it must be planned now and planned as one system. If prompt action is not taken, many uncoordinated systems may be developed. The envisioned system would not only improve maintenance, but it may be a necessary condition for effective maintenance under combat conditions. Author