The role of predictive maintenance in mission-critical service continuity

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of predictive maintenance in the continuity of mission-critical services, emphasizing its strategic relevance for organizational reliability. The study was carried out through bibliographic research with a qualitative approach and exploratory nature, based on national works that address concepts, applications, technologies, and challenges of this practice. The analysis showed that predictive maintenance is established as an essential tool for sectors where service interruption is unacceptable, such as healthcare, telecommunications, energy, and digital infrastructure, by enabling continuous monitoring of critical variables and anticipating failures at early stages. It was observed that its effectiveness is directly linked to the use of sensors, real-time analysis software, and advanced monitoring methodologies, which extend equipment lifespan, reduce costs, and ensure operational reliability. The study also demonstrated that predictive maintenance should be conceived as a strategic and not merely technical practice, since its impact goes beyond asset preservation, involving institutional solidity, social protection, and organizational sustainability. Therefore, its application is reaffirmed as an indispensable requirement for organizations operating in environments of high complexity and responsibility.