Abstract: An overall plan for providing maintenance and technical services for businesses and plants, as broadly defined, includes generic procedures for the services written as a manual of standard practices. A knowledge base or experience database of data and people is utilized, and both hardware and software tools are selected and used in providing the services.

Abstract: The method of providing includes providing an assessment of the maintenance and technical service needs of a plant, as broadly defined, and recommending services for outsourcing selected from a menu of services. The services are modular and may be mixed and matched to a customized fit with the needs of the plant. Categories of services are directed to technical services, motor maintenance, electro-mechanical services, etc. A generic approach to all plant maintenance provides a framework in which to offer the services. Services are offered throughout the life cycle of a plant. Particular industries are targeted for outsourced services.