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Breaking Down Single-Person Data Dependencies at Tasmania Health
Technology Category
- Analytics & Modeling - Real Time Analytics
- Application Infrastructure & Middleware - Data Exchange & Integration
Applicable Industries
- Healthcare & Hospitals
Applicable Functions
- Quality Assurance
- Business Operation
Use Cases
- Real-Time Location System (RTLS)
- Predictive Quality Analytics
- Remote Asset Management
Services
- Data Science Services
- System Integration
The Challenge
Tasmania Health was facing a challenge where their entire data structure was reliant on a single person, creating a single point of failure. This was problematic as it created a risk of data loss or mismanagement if that person was unavailable. The organization was also separated into silos, with each structure having its own 'data guru'. This led to a disjointed system where insights into processes and outcomes were not possible. The organization realized the need for a more centralized data process and remove data confusion. However, the transition to a centralized system was met with resistance due to fears of losing the go-to person for data in each region.
About The Customer
The Tasmania Department of Health is responsible for safeguarding and improving the health and wellbeing of the state's residents. They provide a broad range of health services, including managing hospitals around the state and partnering with other essential public services to improve, promote, protect and maintain the health, safety and wellbeing of Tasmanians. They do this through service planning, managing, procuring and delivering high-quality health services. In 2010, the Department of Health began making forays into data analytics, with three of the four health regions delivering data through one person working with a massive Excel workbook. They recognized the need to start thinking in terms of data warehouses and improved analysis.
The Solution
Tasmania Health implemented a two-pronged solution to address their data management challenges. Firstly, they created a data request system called 'Front Door'. This web application treated staff as customers and facilitated the flow of data requests from the initial contact through to the end data output. This ensured that each request was treated seriously and received an appropriate and timely response. Secondly, they built a data analysis portal called SIMON (Statewide Information Management Operation Node) on top of Qlik Sense. This system of dashboards was designed to meet the needs of each unit, providing critical information at a glance. The transition to this new model was facilitated by Qlik, who provided trial licenses and worked closely with the Tasmania Health team.
Operational Impact
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