In the Information Age, digital transformation can drive change and possibly shape the future. That is why the airline industry opts to digitize their technical documentation and maintenance operations to easily manage documents.
Although a lot of organizations are still handling maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) using fixed workstations, clipboards, pen and paper, and spreadsheets, such practices don’t deliver predictive maintenance and can limit an airline’s operation in terms of minimizing downtime, as well as managing assets, spare parts, and maintenance. But, the majority of organizations are taking advantage of Sonovision technical authoring services and embracing the benefits of technology like the cloud. They believe that digitizing and transforming maintenance operations will position them for growth. Here’s why MROs must go digital with their documents and publications:
Minimize the Risk of Human Error
Usually, paper documents can be cumbersome, particularly when you consider the long maintenance history behind some legacy aircraft. There is a possibility of incomplete maintenance history because of the loss of relevant documents over time. As the number of operators involved increases, there is also an increased risk of missing documents. But, digitizing records could significantly mitigate this risk.
Eliminate Safety Hazards
Every aircraft technician is responsible for integrating maintenance instructions from manufacturer manuals, service bulletins, airworthiness directives, and other sources. But, sometimes, they fail to do so. For many technicians, technical documentation is a challenge. In fact, complex paper-based documentation has been proven to be more hazardous than helpful.
Moreover, airline operations that deal with paper-based processes must manage and maintain records and must prove their compliance. For in-house teams, the overall nature of paper documentation is challenging. This can lead to problems like delays in getting information from other MROs, missing historic records, and more. MRO documentation digitization can make aviation operations safer, more efficient, and more compliant.
Improve the Flow of Information
Information between different parties can be problematic, particularly when there is a mix of technical paper and electronic documentation. This can cause issues with standardization and legibility, causing delays, safety risks, and non-compliance. But, digitizing maintenance documentation would improve the way information is shared between departments and parties. Using cloud services and increasing network security would also help break down silos and make the sharing process more effective, standardized, and manageable. In addition, digital documents can be sent with ease, which can benefit aircraft that come off lease and get sent to another airline operator.