Debunking Top Myths: The Truth About Switching Maintenance Tracking Systems

As Peter Mortimer, an Account Executive at Veryon, notes, "I find that people's fear tends to cause them to stay with their existing tracking system, even if that current solution isn't really working for them, or even if it pushes their budget to somewhere they're a little bit uncomfortable with."

In a recent National Business Aviation Association webinar, our panel of experts discussed the top reasons why users are hesitant to switch systems and debunk the common myths associated with changing.

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Common Fears And Myths About Switching Maintenance Tracking Software—and Why They're Misconceptions 

Compatibility Challenges

Myth: A break in continual compatibility will cause challenge.

Fear: Users worry that integrating new systems with existing ones might lead to compatibility issues, potentially affecting data migration and tracking processes. With a variety of platforms using unique methods for task execution, initial compatibility concerns are understandable.

Debunked: Modern maintenance tracking systems are built with interoperability in mind. They often feature data mapping and integration tools designed to bridge compatibility gaps. Well-supported systems come with robust customer support and development teams that can address specific integration challenges.

Kim Watne: "You do have to be prepared to look at what you had and what you're getting into because your screens will look different, which can be confusing sometimes. I know when we changed maintenance tracking systems, that was one of the biggest things. But you just learn to train your brain to see things differently."

Justin Linscomb: "Sometimes one system does it one way, another system does it another way. Oftentimes I've found that just experimentation and figuring out the system itself often cures a lot of that, but then product development does a good job at adjusting on the fly. We have a really good product development team here at Veryon that does a great job at that." 

Complicated Transition Process 

Myth: The transition process upon going live will be complicated and problematic.

Fear: Users often fear that data may not transfer correctly, and the transition process will be cumbersome. They might be concerned about having to run the legacy system alongside the new solution for an extended period or face difficulties with a complete and immediate switch.

Debunked: Transition strategies vary, and each approach has its advantages. While one option involves running the legacy system alongside the new solution for an extended period, users can also opt for a complete and immediate switch to the new system, forcing them to quickly adapt to the new platform.

Kim Watne: "When we went from our old maintenance tracking to our new tracking system, I ran a report, I turned off the old system, and I never went back. For me, that was the easiest way and simplest because I didn't have to worry about updating two systems."

Justin Linscomb: "Running a parallel system during the transition period provides security and helps train operators on the new system, especially since things may look different. It also allows for working out kinks and making sure everyone is comfortable with the new program." 

Impact On Aircraft Value

Myth: Switching systems will devalue the aircraft.

Fear: There's a belief that changing systems might negatively impact the value of the aircraft. Users worry that the new system could affect the perceived value or create issues with documentation.

Debunked: Complete, well-documented, and accurate records that show prompt responses to Airworthiness Directives and other maintenance needs can enhance aircraft value rather than the other way around. If a user has been relying on an ineffective tracking system, the data may already be unusable, or the software may no longer be suitable for its intended purpose, which could negatively impact the value of the aircraft.

Justin Linscomb: "There are many conformities and pre-buys I would've never made it through without a good, reported tracking system. Rather than sitting at a table in a conference room covered in paper and trying to weed through that, it's always been a seamless process that has helped tremendously with purchasing an aircraft as a new buyer, new operator who's trying to bring that aircraft onto their OpSpec or their certificate and having to go through those conformity processes and increases the value of the aircraft."

Kim Watne: "I think a well-documented aircraft does increase the value of your aircraft. I have seen aircraft being sold where the cockpit is full of aircraft records that go with the aircraft. I have seen them without it, and there's a difference in the price."

Peter Mortimer: "The other way of thinking about it is if you're using a tracking system that isn't working for you or is an Excel-based system or whatever it is you're coming from, if that data is no good or the software is not fit for purpose, then the value of the aircraft is going to be affected by that anyway. So, switching to a new system that solves that problem for you will only have a positive effect. 

Kim Watne: "All maintenance records, including changes, part replacements, and major modifications, are crucial. Having complete and accurate data is essential."

Justin Linscomb: "Obviously life-limited component historical information is critical, especially like engines, engine build data sheets, status reports from overhauls, etc. Also, any STCs with associated ICAs. All of it is incredibly important and it's critical to the effective maintenance tracking of the aircraft." 

Increased Aircraft Downtime

Myth: Aircraft downtime will increase during the transition.

Fear: Users worry that switching systems will disrupt operations and increase downtime, affecting flight schedules and aircraft availability.

Debunked: With proper planning, the transition can be managed without significant downtime. Often, the transition process can be aligned with scheduled maintenance or downtime periods, ensuring minimal impact on operations.

Peter Mortimer: "Everybody's going to have to put in a bit more work during the transition, but the aircraft themselves shouldn't be affected by that."

Justin Linscomb: "When you switch systems or buy an aircraft and bring it on a certificate, users are going to go through a period of time where maintenance prepares the aircraft for conformity, and that's the perfect time for that transition because it helps with the process of doing it simultaneously." 

Conclusion

While transitioning to a new maintenance tracking system may seem daunting, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Moving past the myths and embracing modern systems like Veryon Tracking offer significant improvements in data management, operational efficiency, and overall aircraft value, making it an indispensable tool in today's fast-paced industry. By overcoming the fear of change and embracing a more advanced, integrated platform, aviation companies can ensure their operations are compliant and optimized for growth and success. To schedule a demo, contact us today. 

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