Index
Introduction 1
Responsibility 1
Methodology 1
Project Implementation 2
Reflection 3
References 15
1.0 Introduction
In October 2002, the NHS in England embarked on a modernisation programme following the publication of a series of White Papers: The initiative, labelled the National Programme for Information Technology (NPfIT), was to modernise the NHS through the use of IT (Wanless 2002). NHS organisations were under increasing pressure to deliver efficiencies and business benefits from projects as early as possible and show value for money or a return on investment. The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs), is one strand of the national programme and successful implementation would result in compliance with both NPfIT and the need to improve services whilst cutting costs. The implementation of an information system into any large organisation will present numerous challenges, data security, data migration, information sharing and timely staff training to name a few.
2.0 Responsibility
A community mental health trust at which I was previously employed embarked on the implementation of an EHR, my part in this was to programme manage the project portfolio which was created to support a successful output. I am a PRINCE2 qualified project manager and an MSP (managing successful programmes) qualified practitioner, this methodology was used to manage the projects and programme of the EHR.
3.0 Methodology
PRINCE2 is a traditional methodology with the disadvantages that many traditional methodologies bring (Lau 2022), for example, full delivery at the end of the project instead of incremental delivery and iterative refinement which enables organisations to benefit from early delivery of solutions. The pressure on staff and management of an instant cut-over to a new system/product, the
References: Lau, K. S. S. (2007) ‘Difficulties and weaknesses of using PRINCE2 Methodology ') Wideman, R. M. (2002) ‘Comparing PRINCE2 with PMBoK) Wanless D (2002). Securing Our Future Health: Taking a long-term view. Final report. London: HM Treasury. Available at: www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/Consultations_and_ legislation/wanless/consult_wanless_final.cfm (accessed on 12 August 2008). Bibliography Chapman, C. and Ward, S. (2002) Managing Project Risk and Uncertainty. Wiley and Sons. Chapman, C. and Ward, S. (2004) “Why Risk Efficiency is a Key Aspect of Best Practice Projects.” International Journal of Project Management. Volume 22, 8.