Some consider modular design as something for facilitating manufacturing, repair, and maintenance while others think that it only raises the cost for a product – without offering similar benefits. However, it all comes down to the viewer’s perspective. What is regarded merely as an unnecessary cost to one stakeholder could be a definitive advantage to another stakeholder. Let’s have a look at modular design from the mechanic’s perspective.
Spring is here! The days are getting longer and the streets have been swept clean as motorcycles and classic cars take to the roads once again. During this time of the year it is quite easy to leave the cares of winter behind, especially if the season was a long and harsh one. Although we would like to forget about winter, it is important not to lose sight of vehicle maintenance.
While attending the Southeastern States Pupil Transportation Conference (SESPTC) in Asheville, North Carolina, I had the opportunity to meet with several school transportation directors. One of these directors, William Kurts (a member of NAPT), gave a lecture on the importance of overseeing school bus fleet maintenance. Kurts is the director of transportation for Lexington, South Carolina School District One and oversees 100 buses that run 231 routes. What follows are some timely highlights from the lecture as we approach the start of another school year.