‍FRACAS 101: How to Leverage Failure for Maximum Output

Turn failures into opportunities! Learn how FRACAS helps businesses boost efficiency, cut downtime and improve reliability.
The FieldEx Team
July 16, 2025
Header image

Nobody likes failure. It’s frustrating, costly, and sometimes downright embarrassing. But what if failure wasn’t the enemy? What if it was actually one of the most valuable tools your business could use to improve efficiency and boost productivity?

Enter FRACAS, a systematic approach to Failure Reporting, Analysis and Corrective Action System. In simple terms, FRACAS helps businesses track failures, figure out what went wrong, and take action to ensure the same problem doesn’t happen again. 

In this blog, we’ll break down exactly how FRACAS works, why it’s a game-changer for businesses, and how you can use it to turn costly mistakes into opportunities for growth.

Why FRACAS Matters: How Failure Reporting Improves Maintenance and Reduces Downtime

We get it. Failure is annoying. But here’s a mind-blowing truth: Every failure is packed with useful data, just waiting to be harnessed.

Without a system like FRACAS, failures can:

  • Cause expensive downtime – A single equipment failure can bring an entire operation to a halt.
  • Drain resources – Businesses spend up to 30% of their budgets on preventable maintenance issues.
  • Hurt customer satisfaction – Poor reliability means unhappy customers and bad reviews.

FRACAS turns failure into a learning opportunity, ensuring that every mistake drives improvement rather than causing repeated headaches.

How FRACAS Works: Step-by-Step Failure Reporting and Corrective Action Process

FRACAS isn’t just a fancy acronym; it’s a structured process that works in three key stages:

1. Failure Reporting

  • When something breaks, you log it immediately. The more detailed the report, the better.
  • A proper FRACAS system allows failures to be tracked in real time using digital tools (hint: CMMS can help. More on that later).

2. Failure Analysis

  • Once failures are logged, the system analyzes patterns and root causes.
  • Maybe a part keeps breaking due to stress overload. Maybe a machine needs better maintenance scheduling. Whatever the cause, FRACAS finds the “why”.

3. Corrective Actions

  • Now, you fix the issue; not just temporarily, but permanently.
  • Corrective actions could include design improvements, process changes or new maintenance schedules to prevent repeat failures.

FRACAS in Action: Real Case Studies from Maintenance and Field Operations

Let’s look at some real-world success stories where FRACAS transformed failure into efficiency:

1. Case Study: Manufacturing

A large automotive plant based in Plano, TX was experiencing frequent breakdowns in its robotic assembly line. By implementing FRACAS, they identified a recurring sensor failure and re-engineered the component. Result? A 40% reduction in downtime and massive cost savings.

2. Case Study: Field Service Operations

A Seattle-based field service company was dealing with repeated failures of HVAC systems. FRACAS helped them spot a common installation flaw, leading to better training for technicians. Customer complaints dropped by 60%.

3. Case Study: Equipment Rental & Asset Management

An equipment rental company in White Plains, NY was constantly replacing parts due to wear and tear. With FRACAS, they introduced predictive maintenance, extending asset lifespans and saving 25% on replacement costs.

Common FRACAS Implementation Mistakes (and How to Fix Them with CMMS)

While FRACAS is powerful, many businesses mess it up. Here’s what NOT to do:

  • Ignoring failure patterns – If you keep fixing the same issue without addressing the root cause, you’re wasting time and money.
  • Data silos and poor reporting – If failure data isn’t shared across departments, important insights get lost.
  • Inaction after analysis – Knowing the problem means nothing if corrective actions aren’t implemented.

Solution? A CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) can streamline FRACAS by centralizing data, automating reports, and ensuring follow-through on corrective actions.

CMMS and FRACAS: How Maintenance Software Improves Failure Reporting Systems

FRACAS works best when paired with the right technology. This is where CMMS (like FieldEx) comes in:

  • Real-time failure reporting – Log and track failures as they happen. 
  • Automated alerts & reports – Never miss a critical failure notification. 
  • Predictive maintenance – Use AI-driven analytics to prevent issues before they occur. 
  • Data-driven decision-making – Gain insights that lead to smarter business choices.

By integrating FRACAS with a CMMS, businesses can cut downtime, improve efficiency, and prevent recurring issues before they cause major disruptions.

Final Takeaway: Why FRACAS and CMMS Together Drive Better Maintenance Outcomes

Failure isn’t the enemy – inaction is. Businesses that use FRACAS don’t just fix problems; they create a culture of continuous improvement.

By harnessing failure data, implementing corrective actions, and leveraging CMMS automation, companies can boost efficiency, reduce costs, and increase operational reliability.

Ready to transform failure into success? FieldEx can help you integrate a powerful FRACAS system today. Let’s talk. Reach out for a free demo today. Or contact us with any questions you may have. We’re here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions About FRACAS

1. What does FRACAS stand for?

FRACAS stands for Failure Reporting, Analysis and Corrective Action System. It’s a structured approach used to log equipment failures, analyze root causes and implement fixes to prevent repeat issues.

2. How does FRACAS improve equipment reliability?

FRACAS helps identify recurring problems, uncover root causes and ensure corrective actions are tracked and implemented. This leads to fewer breakdowns, improved uptime and more consistent asset performance.

3. What are the main steps in the FRACAS process?

The FRACAS process typically involves three key stages:

  • Failure Reporting
  • Failure Analysis
  • Corrective Actions
     

Some organizations expand it to include verification and continuous monitoring.

4. Is FRACAS only for manufacturing companies?

Not at all. FRACAS is used in various industries, including field service, healthcare, construction, transportation and equipment rental – anywhere recurring failures impact performance and cost.

5. What’s the difference between FRACAS and RCA (Root Cause Analysis)?

RCA (Root Cause Analysis) is a part of the FRACAS process. While RCA focuses on identifying the "why" behind a failure, FRACAS provides a full loop, from logging and analyzing the failure to implementing and verifying corrective actions.

6. Can FRACAS be automated with software?

Yes. Many businesses use CMMS platforms (like FieldEx) to automate FRACAS. This includes real-time failure logging, automated alerts, centralized data dashboards and built-in reporting tools.

7. How does FieldEx support the FRACAS process?

FieldEx simplifies FRACAS with:

  • Automated failure reporting
  • Predictive analytics
  • Corrective action tracking
  • Audit-ready reporting

It turns reactive chaos into proactive control. All in one dashboard.

8. Can I track failure trends across multiple job sites or facilities?

Absolutely. With FieldEx, you can monitor failures across all your sites, assets and teams. Filter by location, asset type or job history to uncover patterns and optimize performance.

9. What kind of failures should be logged in FRACAS?

Any failure that causes disruption, downtime, safety risks or excessive cost should be logged. This includes equipment malfunctions, human errors, installation flaws or supply chain issues.

10. Is FRACAS useful for preventive maintenance?

A resounding YES. FRACAS and preventive maintenance go hand-in-hand. By understanding past failures, you can build smarter PM schedules that reduce the risk of future breakdowns.

11. Is FieldEx CMMS suitable for small teams or only large operations?

FieldEx is scalable. Whether you’re a two-person maintenance crew or managing dozens of sites, you can customize workflows, roles and asset visibility to match your needs … without overcomplicating your day-to-day.

12. Can FieldEx integrate with my existing systems?

Absolutely. FieldEx connects easily with tools you’re already using like CRMs, calendars and inventory systems. You won’t have to start from scratch or juggle multiple platforms.

13. How much does FieldEx cost?

FieldEx offers flexible, transparent pricing with plans to suit businesses of all sizes. You only pay for what you need, and there's no expensive hardware or setup cost. 

Check our pricing page to know more. 

14. How do I get started with FieldEx?

Simply schedule a free demo, and see how FieldEx can help your business reduce downtime, streamline repairs, and take the chaos out of troubleshooting.

Got questions? Just get in touch – we’re here to help.

Related reads:

  1. What is Preventive Maintenance? (The Complete Guide) 
  2. Top 7 Causes of Equipment Failure (and Fixes with CMMS)
  3. What is CMMS Software? Definition, Benefits, How it Works
  4. 15+ Benefits of CMMS in 2025 
  5. CMMS Integrations: The Essential Guide to Smarter Maintenance
  6. What to Consider Before Buying a CMMS Software 
  7. Step-by-Step Guide to Selecting the Right Maintenance Strategy
  8. The Ultimate Guide to Predictive Maintenance 
  9. 7 Steps to Building a Preventive Maintenance Program 
  10. Choosing a Maintenance Strategy for Your Assets 
  11. Implementing Predictive Maintenance in Manufacturing: Best Practices
  12. What is Field Service Management? A Complete Guide
  13. Top 9 reasons why FieldEx is your best field service partner
  14. The 7 Types of Maintenance (Explained)
  15. Proactive vs Reactive Maintenance: Key Differences, When to Use 

About the Author

Dashboard mockup

The FieldEx Team

FieldEx is a B2B field service management software designed to streamline operations, scheduling, and tracking for industries like equipment rental, facilities management, and EV charging, helping businesses improve efficiency and service delivery.

Complex operations simplified with one software.

No paperwork. No spreadsheets. No blindspots. Just one solution that simplifies your field service operations.
Header image