6. Conclusion

We have just presented the reader with the essentials of the current concepts associated with the maintenance function, specifying the main words in the associated vocabulary. Obviously, we have not attempted to be exhaustive. Not all maintenance activities can be summed up in these few words. Whether we're talking about documentation, components (spare parts, parts, etc.), or contractual relations (outsourcing), there are official texts, standards or other documents that specify the meaning to be retained by users for each of the words used. Readers are strongly advised to refer to them if necessary. As we've already said, using the "right" word, whose meaning is shared by all, to express a concept avoids many misunderstandings and guarantees mutual understanding, thus avoiding many of the conflicts that arise from misunderstandings.