Preparations’ methodology for the introduction of Information Systems in Hospitals

In the early stages of the introduction of an Information System in a Hospital and before the initiation of the procedures for the actual installation, numerous preparatory actions must be concluded as part of the project. The set of these actions comprise a certain preparatory phase which must be considered part of the project and it has to be well suited in the initial plans. Omitting or limiting the preparatory phase will have as a consequence noticeable delays and in some cases the failure of modules or even endanger the entire project. The successful completion of the preparatory actions rely on a systematic approach which ensures that all the influencing factors have been considered and all interacting conflicts have been resolved prior to the project’s commencement; this can be realized by employing a methodological framework such as the 4-by-3 structure with shafts, which is proposed in the present paper. The considered preparations provide a clear picture and a feedback of the existing organizational readiness and the necessary existing IT cultural status, thus allow taking in advance, the appropriate and adequate measures.