A proposed conceptual system dynamics model for managing transition-phases in healthcare environments

Engineering management practice and research has gained popularity since the dawn of the new millennium. In recent years, the healthcare industry has placed attention into engineering management tools and techniques to address many challenges such as electronic health records implementations. These challenges require processes to be modified, whether on a small or large scale, or in a superficial or deep way. Yet, little attention has been paid to the management of these transition phases using a scientific management approach. The purpose of the work presented in this paper is to introduce a conceptual transition phase management model. The model is based on system dynamics principles, and borrows concepts from change management and learning curve theories. Engineering managers can benefit from the model in two ways: 1) the model can be employed to conduct qualitative behavior over time analyses and 2) the model possesses the potential to be developed as a simulation model. By improving the transition-phase management process, healthcare managers can improve the effectiveness of new processes and reduce costs and time spent in their implementation. Copyright, American Society for Engineering Management, 2012.