Frequently Asked Questions

Everyone claims their CMMS is simple and easy. Why is Benchmate?

Good question. There is indeed a great deal of similarity amongst Windows-based programs. To get a handle, we suggest that you check out: 1) The number of screens required for common functions (e.g.: 'close jobs'), 2) mouse-to-keyboard activity and 3) recommended training. Benchmate uses just one screen for each function. A quick way to compare programs is to see how many screens are used to close a job (one of the most time consuming tasks in any CMMS). Benchmate uses just 1. Many others use 5 to 7. When typing, many systems require you to use the mouse to skip over a field and then return to the keyboard to enter data. Benchmate does not require the mouse when editing. Skipping forward and back is easily accomplished using the TAB key. For those desiring training, our effective training class is completed in just two days - compared to 5 days for many others. Many users do not need training at all, especially if they have some experience in setting up spreadsheets or have previous CMMS experience.
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I do not want a system so complicated that only one person can use it.

Benchmate is easy to use. New users are typically productive after only 10 - 20 minutes of training.
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I want to protect my data but also want my people to be able to view and use Benchmate.

Benchmate has a simple but effective way to control what each user can view and change. Each password controls access to each screen and group of reports. For each, you may specify whether that password user can view, add, change and delete.
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It is difficult to get attention from my computer systems people. I want a CMMS that is reliable, stable and does not require regular systems attention.

Benchmate does not require extensive systems time and attention. The initial installation should not require more than 30 minutes for a five-user configuration. All systems needs to do is to install two Benchmate CDs and set up a short-cut on each work station PC following step-by-step instructions.; Subsequent updates should require no more than 15 minutes. The Benchmate administrator can do Benchmate setup including passwords.
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How much training is needed to use Benchmate?

Most users do not require training, especially if they have some experience using spreadsheets, databases, or other CMMS programs. We offer a two-day class that helps you properly set up and use your Benchmate database, build a preventive maintenance program and to schedule and track work orders.
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I have my equipment and spare parts data in Excel or Access. Can I load this data into Benchmate?

Yes, we have an easy-to-use import program to transfer your existing database files into Benchmate. Typical sources are another CMMS, spare parts list from your equipment vendors or enterprise software. Basically, if your information can be loaded into a spreadsheet, it can be loaded into Benchmate.
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Will Benchmate schedule and print jobs when they are due?

Yes. When you create a job in Benchmate, you designate a Schedule Date - the date you want to do the job. Preventive Maintenance jobs also contain rescheduling information so that Benchmate can automatically set a new Schedule Date when the PM is closed.
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What database is used?

Benchmate uses a database library - CTREE - by Faircom, Inc. that is built into the program itself. It does not require a separate license for the database or a third-part program to install and maintain. A single vendor, Benchmate Systems, Inc., maintains both the application and the database software.
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Why doesn’t Benchmate use a database like Access or SQL Server?

There are two reasons – to avoid ‘version mismatches’ and to not involve a third party software. Version mismatches frequently happen when a vendor issues a new release that may not be compatible with the application program (e.g.: Benchmate) and your IT department will not support or requires you to remove the old version. Your IT department may not wish to upgrade to the new database software. Sometimes the IT department will not support either database and will not even allow you to install a ‘user’ program such as Access. In these cases, you will not be able to use the application program.

Benchmate avoids these problems by including the database software in the application program.
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What programming language is Benchmate written in?

Benchmate is programmed in C & C++ resulting in a compact and fast-loading program. The main Benchmate program, including the necessary auxiliary (e.g.: DLL) programs, is 1.6 megabytes versus 10 megabytes or more for other languages such as BASIC.
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How does Benchmate reduce data entry time?

Benchmate is designed so that the most common tasks (e.g.: close jobs, request maintenance service, schedule jobs) can be done from just one screen. For example, some other CMMS programs require you to use 7 screens (or pages) just to close a job.
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