ABSTRACT
Information technology systems are seen as one way to streamline processes and take costs out of a healthcare organization. However, healthcare information systems, specifically clinical information systems, are some of the most complex systems to install. Couple that with the changes in processes necessary to realize the potential savings in expenses and improved quality and safety, and they have one of the toughest projects in any industry to manage. This chapter examines a methodology for project management in a healthcare setting focusing on the life cycle of a project as well as methodologies for incorporating process improvement techniques into a project to receive the most value from an implementation. It addresses project management methodologies, utilizing PMBOK as a baseline approach. The chapter describes the process a project manager should use during the five established phases of every project: initiating, planning, execution, managing and controlling, and closeout.
