The MOWIS software package is a network-compatible maintenance of way information system that was developed by ZETA-TECH Associates Inc. This package includes modules for displaying a system map, displaying track charts, displaying detailed data of the various track components, logging component failures, planning and logging repairs and forecasting track component failures and rail life.

The MOWIS database includes a detailed description of the various track components in use including installation data and repairs. This database can be updated by the various track maintenance employees to provide a near real-time record of the track components and the overall condition of the track. Based on this same database, MOWIS can provide a forecast of the track condition for maintenance planning and of the rail life for budgeting rail replacement.

MOWIS provides simultaneous access to a common database for all authorized users. Therefore, all users are provided with an up to the minute information on the entire transit system.

The system map module of MOWIS provides a graphical display of the entire transit system with the option to display track component failures and/or rail defects, as shown above. The system map also provides direct access to data on the condition of each station, including photographs. The system map also provides access to the track chart based on the data in the database. The user can display the additional data by clicking on the desired station or segment.

The trackchart module can display a "real-time" track chart of any segment of the transit system. The track chart displays data typical of the paper track charts that are probably updated once a year. The track chart displays general data describing the rail, track fixation, curves, grade, stations, structures, turnouts, diamonds, expansion joints, and lubricators. The user can select which of these data are to be displayed on the track chart. Additional data, such as installation date, related inventory and present and repaired defects, are available by clicking on the component displayed on the track chart. The track chart can also be scrolled to allow the user to locate the desired segment of track to be displayed.

MOWIS records failures of track components as entered by the maintenance of way track inspectors and roadmasters. From the list of failed components, MOWIS produces work orders to be assigned to track gangs to repair these defects. MOWIS also records whenever a defect is repaired and the components used in that repair. MOWIS has an up-to-date record of the condition of the track for the entire system at any time. MOWIS also keeps a running inventory of the available components to be used for repairs, including the item descriptions and stock numbers.