A
process control system uses a data collection and
distribution system and an asset utilization suite to collect data or information pertaining to the assets of a
process plant from various sources or functional areas of the
plant including, for example, the
process control functional areas, the maintenance functional areas and the process
performance monitoring functional areas. This data and information is manipulated in a coordinated manner by the data collection and
distribution system and is redistributed to other applications where this it is used to perform overall better or more
optimal control, maintenance and
business activities. Information or data may be collected by maintenance functions pertaining to the health, variability, performance or utilization of a device, loop, unit, area, etc. and this information may then be sent to and displayed to a process operator or maintenance person to inform that person of a current or future problem. A
user interface is provided that enables users to access and manipulate the expert engine to optimize
plant operation or cause optimization of
plant operation, to get information about the operation of the plant, etc. Furthermore, applications, such as work order generation applications may automatically generate work orders, parts or supplies orders, etc. based on events occurring within the plant.