We scored maintenance options on four criteria that directly affect your bottom line:

• Performance impact: How much does the plan reduce device failures and downtime?
• Ease of implementation: How quickly can you train staff or set up partnerships?
• Value: Cost versus the benefit you get—not just sticker price.
• Reliability over time: Does the plan hold up as your volume grows?

These are the same criteria we'd use for any operational decision. Skip them and you're guessing.