Predictive maintenance is a proactive approach to equipment management that uses data analysis to predict when maintenance should be performed. By monitoring the condition of machinery and analyzing performance data, organizations can identify potential issues before they lead to failures, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. This method often involves the use of technologies such as IoT sensors and machine learning algorithms. These tools collect real-time data on equipment performance, allowing companies to schedule maintenance activities at optimal times, ensuring that machinery operates efficiently and reliably.