Short description
Obsolescence means that a component or - as a consequence of it - a complete assembly (processes, materials, software, production equipment, system) is no longer available during the period of use. This means that operators and suppliers need to start elaborating at the time of purchasing a system how to ensure the operation and spare parts supply. The component availability over the full life span of the system is to be included as a core issue in all considerations. Obsolescence cases occur through the rapidly rising number of innovations as well as the "electronisation" in all sectors of the capital goods industry (assets, capital goods, infrastructure, durable consumer goods, consumables and software products). The standard describes concepts to ensure the usage (e.g. through availability of spare parts) of systems and components that are (or will become) older than 10, 20, or 30 years. The obsolescence management can be considered as part of risk management. Properly carried out, it aims at preventing or reducing production or service failures due to outdated or no longer available processes, materials, software, production facilities, etc., or lost know-how.