Adopting a standardised approach to asset management

摘要

Use of a standardised asset management model allows organisations to take a logical approach to improving highways performance Major change is under way in the management of England's strategic road network. More than ever before there is a need for well governed asset management decision making and long term planning of the asset lifecycle. This could be achieved through use of a standardised approach. The case for using standardised asset management models such as PAS 55 and the recently launched ISO 55000 is based on understanding the drivers, identifying the implications and benefits of standardisation on an organisation and proving how such models help to realise practical benefits. Standardisation should bring culture and behaviours together including transparency and consistency, accountability, reliability and thinking 'line of sight'. Of course there are some perceived downsides - typically the initial investment and profile of costs versus long term gains, the organisational scale of undertaking a big transformation project and the fact that PAS 55 and ISO 55000 are generic quality standards and not always readily understood within the sector. Establishing new business processes and quality frameworks can be phased, early cross sharing and learning can be encouraged between similar asset owners, and highway specific approaches can and should be developed. Benefits should be seen in the long term, which requires commitment to a sustained approach, not solely focused on making a quick win.