A strategic information system to facilitate the use of performance indicators in hospitals

Health Serv Manage Res. 1998 May;11(2):80-91. doi: 10.1177/095148489801100202.

Abstract

Hospital management teams receive voluminous data from a wide variety of sources, but are unable to distill the essential data they require to make good decisions. We have used a methodology which helps teams define and use important management data coupled with an information system that makes this data accessible. Results of our evaluation indicate that the process of developing a balanced scorecard (BSC) indicator system helps management teams to define meaningful strategic objectives and measurable performance indicators. The framework combined with the information acts as an integrating force, providing a shared understanding of the unit's goals. We conclude that a customized decision support system which integrates multiple measures in a BSC framework is a powerful tool for enabling complex decision making by a management team.

MeSH terms

  • Canada
  • Decision Support Systems, Management / organization & administration*
  • Efficiency, Organizational
  • Focus Groups
  • Hospitals, Teaching / organization & administration*
  • Hospitals, Teaching / standards
  • Organizational Case Studies
  • Organizational Innovation
  • Planning Techniques
  • Program Evaluation
  • Quality Indicators, Health Care*