Top 3 IBM Maximo Alternatives

IBM Maximo Manage, a core part of the IBM Maximo Application Suite, serves as an enterprise asset management (EAM) solution. It offers a full set of capabilities, including work order management, preventive maintenance scheduling, asset tracking, inventory control, and procurement.

For many years, Maximo has served as the backbone of maintenance management in large, complex operations, though maintaining that backbone has become increasingly resource-intensive as the platform has evolved. However, the demands of modern maintenance teams have shifted. Speed of deployment, mobile usability, technician adoption, and reduced reliance on outside consultants have become deciding factors. For teams questioning whether their current platform's implementation complexity and ongoing administrative requirements align with these priorities, this article outlines three alternatives worth considering.

Why Teams Are Exploring Maximo Alternatives

You're probably here because getting Maximo to do what you need has either become your primary problem, or you know colleagues experiencing this struggle. Or perhaps, maybe it's the implementation that never quite finished. Or the consultant invoices that show up every time something needs to change. Maybe your technicians have already found workarounds because the mobile experience doesn't hold up on the floor. 

Whatever brought you here, it’s probably the same pattern others haven’t been able to ignore. The effort to keep it working doesn't scale with your team's actual needs. Here's what we're hearing from teams in similar situations.

Steep Learning Curve and Usability Challenges

Maximo complicates adoption for everyday users, especially frontline technicians and planners without prior EAM experience. Its non-intuitive interface and legacy layouts create navigation challenges, slowing user onboarding. Organizations typically require formal, often months-long, training and extensive internal documentation to support the steep learning curve.

Mobile Application Performance and Synchronization

Field teams frequently encounter challenges with Maximo's mobile functionality, particularly concerning data synchronization. Reliable offline mobile experiences require significant technical effort beyond base platform deployment, as organizations must carefully design the data architecture, synchronization frequency, and offline data management. Technical complexities arise when managing large volumes of asset data, work order histories, and documentation on mobile devices, especially with intermittent connectivity. 

Dependency on Specialized Technical Resources

Maintaining Maximo requires specialized technical expertise for ongoing configuration, reports, integrations, and workflow modifications, often beyond the scope of general IT teams. Organizations face a strategic decision when implementing. Either invest in developing internal Maximo skills or depend on implementation partners. This choice significantly affects the speed of deploying changes, the retention of critical knowledge during staff turnover, and the platform's adaptability over time.

Key Capabilities to Prioritize When Replacing Maximo

When evaluating alternative enterprise asset management software, maintenance and reliability teams should assess capabilities that address the challenges outlined above while supporting today’s asset management requirements.

• Unified Asset Performance Management: For truly effective asset management, prioritize a unified platform that natively integrates maintenance (CMMS), asset health monitoring, and reliability analytics. Avoid separate products that require complex integration. A single, consistent architecture is essential to break down data silos and directly connect maintenance activities with crucial asset condition insights.
• Mobile-First Design with Offline Capability: True offline functionality is essential for field technician mobile applications. These mobile-first solutions must ensure continuous access to work orders, asset histories, and procedures, even without an internet connection. A critical feature is automatic synchronization, which requires no technician input to update data once connectivity is restored.
• AI-Powered Diagnostics and Prescriptive Guidance: Advanced platforms leverage AI to automate fault detection and deliver prescriptive maintenance, reducing reliance on specialist analysts and accelerating response times. Solutions that offer automated diagnostics are key. They should convert complex sensor data into straightforward, actionable instructions for technicians.
• Integrations Without Custom Development: Replacing Maximo often raises concerns about connecting the new platform to existing ERP, financial, or procurement systems. Look for solutions that offer API-based integration paths and pre-built connectors that your team can configure directly, rather than platforms that require middleware, custom development projects, or ongoing IT involvement to maintain data flow between systems.

Maximo Alternatives at a Glance

Best 3 Maximo Alternatives

Tractian

Best for: Maintenance and reliability teams seeking a unified platform that combines AI-powered condition monitoring, mobile-first CMMS, and reliability analytics in a single solution with rapid deployment timelines.

Tractian delivers an integrated approach to asset management that unifies condition monitoring, maintenance execution, and reliability engineering into a single platform. The system connects Smart Trac Ultra wireless vibration sensors directly to its CMMS and Reliability module, creating a closed loop from fault detection to work order completion. 

When sensors detect anomalies in vibration, temperature, or runtime patterns, the platform automatically generates prioritized work orders with diagnostic context and prescriptive guidance. This eliminates handoffs between monitoring tools and maintenance systems, which can create delays in traditional environments.

The platform's Reliability module extends beyond basic maintenance management to provide failure mode libraries, root cause analysis tools, and asset health scoring based on criticality. Teams can manage inspections, track failure events, and compare reliability metrics across assets from a single interface. 

Tractian's approach positions maintenance programs as strategic revenue protection, whereas traditional programs are treated as cost centers. With real-time KPIs including MTBF, MTTR, and backlog visibility calculated automatically from operational data, the game truly changes. Customer deployments report ROI within 12 months, with implementation timelines of 30-60 days rather than the extended rollouts typical of legacy EAM platforms.

Key Features

• AI-Powered Auto Diagnosis: Patented algorithms analyze vibration, temperature, and operational data to identify failure modes automatically, providing plain-language prescriptions that guide technicians to resolution without requiring specialized analysis expertise.
• Native CMMS with Mobile Execution: Provides complete work order management from the mobile app, including offline functionality, geolocation tracking, and a built-in stopwatch for time analysis. Technicians execute tasks with full access to asset histories, procedures, and diagnostic context.
• Unified Reliability Suite: The platform consolidates FMEA tools, root cause analysis, inspection management, and asset health monitoring in a single environment. Failure events from multiple predictive techniques feed into one timeline for comprehensive asset visibility.
• Wireless Vibration Sensors: Industrial-grade wireless sensors capture triaxial vibration (up to 32 kHz), temperature, runtime, and RPM data every 5 minutes. IP69K rating and ATEX/IECEx certification support deployment in harsh and hazardous environments with a 3-5 year battery life.
• Rapid Implementation with Hands-On Support: Tractian's field-first approach includes on-site training by maintenance engineers, guided data migration, and ongoing customer success support. Deployments achieve operational status in 30-60 days with documented payback periods under 4 months.

Why real customers choose Tractian over Maximo

• I like that Tractian “generates warnings in which the machine is not yet in a critical state, but notifies you to be able to perform a more detailed inspection with your vibration team to validate data and the physical condition of the machine.” Gerardo T., Predictive Maintenance and Lubrication Supervisor
• Tractian helps us “ensure that the plant is always available for production and that the equipment is not the cause of unplanned stoppages or interruptions. The centralization of information allows you to visualize all monitored assets in one place and obtain valuable insights in real time.” And, “It is easy to install and does not require major transformations within the plant.” Guadalupe O., Enterprise Maintenance Analyst
• Another review writes, “The infrastructure they provide is very beneficial. It allows for the establishment of a wireless communication network between multiple devices, facilitating continuous inspection 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This frees people from the task of manually checking a large number of pieces of equipment.” Domingo O., Mid-Market Engineer

Why companies choose Tractian over Maximo

• “We’ve been nothing but pleased... the services, the responses, the information, the data—everything has just been great.” Chris Collins, VP of North America Operations at Great Plains Manufacturing
• “For the first time, we can clearly see what’s happening on the floor before a failure hits. That kind of visibility is a game-changer.” Trevor Baker, Sr. Manager, Manufacturing Strategic Initiatives
• “Tractian has allowed us to move from firefighting mode to proactive maintenance. We can plan ahead and keep things running smoothly, which makes a huge difference for the team and for the animals we care for.” Plant Engineer at Georgia Aquarium

Pro and Cons at a Glance

How much does Tractian cost?

Tractian uses transparent per-sensor and per-user pricing, without platform fees or hidden integration charges. All plans include AI-powered diagnostics, offline mobile execution, multi-site visibility, and condition monitoring capabilities. Tractian provides free onboarding and implementation support. 

SAP S/4HANA

Best for: Operations using SAP infrastructure that require asset management functions connected to existing SAP ERP modules.

SAP S/4HANA Asset Management is a module within SAP's ERP platform that provides work order processing, preventive maintenance scheduling, and equipment tracking. The module operates within SAP's architecture, which means organizations must navigate SAP's implementation methodology and may require SAP-certified consultants for configuration. Organizations without existing SAP infrastructure face additional complexity, as the asset management functions depend on foundational SAP components and licensing. 

The module has received updates, including priority-matrix tools and failure-mode data capture. However, accessing these features and realizing value from updates often requires configuration work and familiarity with SAP's release cycle. Mobile access is available through SAP Service and Asset Manager. SAP has introduced AI-assisted work order creation and integration paths to SAP Asset Performance Management, though these functions may involve additional licensing and implementation considerations. Teams evaluating the platform should assess how ongoing SAP platform changes and version dependencies affect long-term maintenance of their asset management configuration.

Key features

• Mobile Applications: Provides maintenance task management through SAP Fiori apps with an offline mode for field use
• ERP Module Connection: Connects asset data with finance, procurement, and inventory modules within the SAP environment
• Predictive Maintenance Hooks: Integration with SAP Asset Performance Management allows work orders to be triggered from condition data

Real Customer Gaps with SAP 

As of December 2025, teams implementing SAP S/4HANA Asset Management are likely to discover several operational gaps in their maintenance management deployment.

• Automated diagnostic intelligence: The module processes work orders and schedules, but it won't tell you why a pump is failing or what steps to take next. Diagnosis and repair guidance still fall to your team or require separately licensed SAP products to fill the gap.
• Integrated condition monitoring: If you want real-time sensor data flowing directly into maintenance workflows, you'll need additional SAP modules, third-party tools, and integration projects. There's no native path from asset alert to work order without extra layers.
• Self-service deployment and scaling: Need to adjust a workflow, expand to a new site, or add assets? That typically means engaging SAP-certified consultants and working through formal change processes. Your team's ability to move fast depends on external availability and budget.

Pro and Cons at a Glance

How much does SAP cost?

SAP S/4HANA Asset Management pricing varies based on deployment model and licensing structure. On-premise deployments involve perpetual licensing with annual maintenance fees. Implementation costs depend on configuration complexity and integration requirements with other SAP modules. Organizations should request detailed quotes that include implementation services, training, and ongoing support costs.

HxGN EAM

Best for: Operations managing equipment records and compliance documentation across multiple facilities.

HxGN EAM, formerly Infor EAM, provides work order management, preventive maintenance scheduling, inventory control, and asset tracking functions. The platform has undergone multiple ownership transitions, beginning as Datastream, then becoming part of Infor, and finally joining Hexagon in 2021. Some feel this raises questions about product direction and support continuity. 

HxGN’s system provides on-premise, cloud, and hybrid deployment options with a mobile application. Configuration options allow workflow adjustments, though their depth often requires technical expertise and can extend implementation timelines. The system includes reporting tools and dashboard functions for maintenance tracking.

Integration with GIS and BIM systems is available through separate products, which may involve additional licensing and integration work. Administrative tasks and report customization frequently require dedicated technical resources beyond general user training. Organizations assessing HxGN EAM should evaluate the total implementation scope, including configuration services, ongoing administrative support requirements, and potential dependencies on additional products for certain integrations.

Key features

• Asset Hierarchy Management: Tracks parent-child relationships across equipment, locations, and systems
• Compliance Documentation: Generates audit trails and regulatory reports
• Mobile Work Execution: HxGN EAM Digital Work application allows field access to work orders and asset data

Real customer gaps with HxGN

As of December 2025, teams implementing HxGN EAM are likely to run into a few operational gaps once the system is in place.

• Automated diagnostic intelligence: The platform handles work orders and asset records, but it doesn't tell you what's actually wrong with a machine or what to do about it. Diagnosis and repair guidance still depend on your team's expertise or external analysis.
• Integrated condition monitoring: If you want real-time sensor data feeding directly into maintenance workflows, you're looking at separate products, additional Hexagon licenses, and integration work. There's no native path from vibration alert to work order in a single environment.
• Self-service configuration and scaling: The system offers deep configuration, but using it often requires pulling in technical resources or outside help. Adding assets, adjusting workflows, or building reports tends to move at the pace of your IT queue rather than your maintenance priorities

Pro and Cons at a Glance

How much does HxGN cost?

HxGN EAM uses tiered pricing based on assets under management. Pricing details require direct engagement with Hexagon sales, and organizations should factor in implementation services, training, and ongoing support when assessing total costs, given the configuration complexity noted in user reviews.

Why Tractian is the Smarter Choice Compared to Maximo

Maximo was built for a different era of maintenance management. Tractian was built for how maintenance teams actually work today. The core differences come down to execution speed and practical adoption:

• Deployment in weeks, not years: Full implementation in 30-60 days with no consultant dependency
• Mobile-first architecture: Technicians work from the floor with offline capability, not from desktop terminals
• AI that delivers answers: Automated diagnostics and AI-generated SOPs replace manual analysis and tribal knowledge
• Unified platform: Condition monitoring sensors, analytics, and CMMS in one system with no integration projects
• Immediate technician adoption: Intuitive interface requires minimal training and drives floor-level engagement from day one

For Plant Managers: Maximo implementations consume capital, time, and executive attention for extended periods before delivering measurable returns. Tractian customers report ROI in under 12 months, with documented outcomes including $2.6 million in savings and 1,500+ hours of prevented downtime. 

The platform provides real-time visibility into asset health and maintenance performance across sites without requiring ongoing investment in specialized administrators or external consultants. Compliance documentation and audit trails are generated automatically as work is executed, reducing regulatory risk without adding overhead.

For Maintenance Managers: Managing a Maximo environment often means managing the system itself: configuring workflows, troubleshooting mobile issues, coordinating with IT, and training users on complex interfaces. Tractian removes that burden. Work orders flow directly from AI-detected anomalies to technician task lists. Scheduling uses drag-and-drop tools with automatic workload balancing. KPIs like MTTR, MTBF, and backlog update in real time without manual data entry. The result is more time spent on maintenance strategy and less time spent on software administration.

For Technicians: Legacy systems like Maximo often become obstacles on the floor rather than tools that help get work done. Tractian was designed for technicians first. The mobile app works offline in low-connectivity areas, provides instant access to assets via QR code scanning, and delivers AI-generated checklists and procedures directly within the workflow. Technicians know what to fix, how to fix it, and can document completion without returning to a desktop. Adoption happens naturally because the tool actually helps rather than adding steps.

See why maintenance teams are making the switch. 

Explore Tractian's ROI calculator to estimate your potential savings, or book a demo and see what your team can achieve with Tractian on your side.

FAQs about Maximo

1. Can Maximo be deployed in under 60 days? 

Maximo implementations typically require 12 to 24 months due to infrastructure complexity, configuration requirements, and consultant-led project management. Tractian deploys in 30 to 60 days with onboarding support included and no external consultants required.

2. Does Maximo provide AI-generated diagnostics and repair guidance? 

Maximo does not include native AI that automatically diagnoses faults or delivers prescriptive repair steps within the platform. Tractian's Auto Diagnosis detects failure modes in real time and attaches specific repair procedures directly to each alert.

3. Can technicians use Maximo effectively in low-connectivity environments? 

Maximo Mobile has documented performance issues in areas with limited connectivity, often forcing technicians to delay updates or work around the system. Tractian's mobile app was built offline-first, allowing technicians to access work orders, scan assets, and complete tasks regardless of network conditions.

4. Does Maximo include integrated condition monitoring sensors? 

Maximo does not provide its own hardware for condition monitoring and instead relies on third-party sensors, middleware, and integration projects to connect asset health data to maintenance workflows. Tractian combines Smart Trac Ultra sensors with its CMMS in a single platform, delivering a direct path from vibration alert to work order without additional tools or configuration.