Data Analysis & Tracking

Effective use of consistent feedback in the form of statistical tracking and analysis is indispensible to maximizing human performance on an organizational scale. 

Data Analysis

QMS facilitates in-depth analysis of statistical ratings through a dashboard interface that allows users to easily group and query exam data using an integrated set of data filters.  The dashboard graphically displays the ratings enabling managers to make comparisons and track ratings.  The dashboard items allow the user to drill into data and easily discover outliers and commonalities.  Integrated reporting allows users to quickly produce and print reports of discoveries.  An intuitive “bookmark” feature allows users to save filter settings so that it is easy to revisit points of interest.  All dashboard items and their popup windows feature the drill-down and report generation functionality illustrated in the images below.

Analysis of QAISys^® data allows managers to discover both latent organizational weaknesses and strengths.  This allows managers to focus their efforts toward improvement in the areas most needed.  The QMS dashboard shows where thresholds are not being met through visual indicators.  Locations, technologists, and exam-types with ratings below threshold are shown on Threshold Alert Listings. 

(Images to show Goal/Caution/Warning Thresholds; show Threshold Alert Listings)

Target areas for improvement might include a specific exam-type or a specific type of recurring quality detraction.  It may become apparent that recurrent quality deficiencies tend to occur at a specific location or may arise during a certain time of day. 

(Images to show Exam-type Comparison Table; show Detraction Comparison; show Location Comparison; show Day/Shift/Time Comparison)

Once areas for improvement have been targeted, the dashboard helps managers to explore what might be the root cause of recurrent detractions such as inadequate equipment performance, patient related difficulties, technologist performance, or deficiencies related to poorly designed processes. 

(Images to show Technologist Comparison; show Dissatisfactory Exams Listing; show Fault Comparison)

Further analysis may reveal latent best practices which management may be able to promulgate for broader use.  This can produce significant and lasting improvements. 

(Images to indicate why one tech might have a high rating over an extended performance)

QAISys^® data analysis serves as the basis for organized, data-driven, and effective quality improvement initiatives undertaken on an individual and group basis.  These quality improvement initiatives involve:

1. Identifying improvement targets.
2. Determining patterns of quality failure and potential root causes.
3. Identifying potential quality improvement resources such as individuals who have been able to perform consistently well and who are likely employing best practices.
4. Implementing plans utilizing resources for improvement.
5. Setting short and long-term goals.
6. Monitoring progress.

QMS provides an integrated reporting interface that enables the user to generate a report at each point in discovery and employs intuitive forward/back and bookmarking features that facilitate free discovery and reporting.  See QMS Web Application>Dashboard for more details.

Data Tracking

Most people – especially healthcare professionals truly want to perform to the best of their ability.  QMS enables managers to track and trend ratings.  This allows managers to set both short and long-term goals for improvement on a group or individual basis. 

(Images to show QR Tracking point out 12 Month and 3 Month QR)

Tracking Individual Improvement

Tracking a rating for each individual technologist can have a profound effect toward quality improvement because it raises the level of quality awareness.  It allows managers to set and enforce quality standards.  QAISys^® employs the authoritative assessment of the radiologists as its basis so that managers are able to approach the technologist as a coach who seeks to help the technologist to improve.  See Discussions>Progressive Implementation: Stage II for detailed recommendations.

Tracking Group Improvement

Tracking a rating and setting goals for groups of technologists (such as a shift or modality) promotes teamwork and enables managers to foster leadership skills in their staff.  See Discussions>Progressive Implementation: Stage III for detailed recommendations.

Tracking Improvement in Targeted Areas

When a specific exam-type or detraction-type is targeted for improvement, QMS enables managers to track a rating for the specified area.  This serves as the basis for focused and sustained improvement. 

QMS is a powerful tool for planning, executing, and maintaining positive changes.  Managers who skillfully apply QMS analysis as the basis for a kaizen or PDCA approach to continuous quality improvement will enjoy profound success. 

Materials presented in the Discussions page and Blog of this website are designed to provide strategic insight toward effective use of the QMS analytical tools.  The QMS Web Application page provides greater detail regarding the function of the application.

QAISys, Inc. is committed to continually improving our web application and to providing support, consultation, and instructional materials that enable your organization to attain maximum benefit from employing the QAISys^® process.