Table 1 Description of the five stages of continuous improvement
From: Pathways to improve health information systems in Ethiopia: current maturity status and implications
Stage | Description | Score |
|---|---|---|
Emerging/ad hoc | Formal processes, capabilities, experience, or understanding of HIS issues/activities are limited or emerging Formal processes are not documented, and functional capabilities are at the development stage Success depends on individual effort | 1 |
Repeatable | Basic processes are in place based on previous activities or existing and accessible policies The need for standardized processes and automated functional capabilities is known There are efforts to document current processes | 2 |
Defined | There are approved, documented processes and guidelines tailored to HIS projects or activities There is increased collaboration and knowledge-sharing Innovative methods and tools can be implemented and used to extend functional capabilities | 3 |
Managed | Activities are under control using established processes Requirements/goals have been developed, and a feedback process is in place to ensure that they are met Detailed measures for processes and products are being collected | 4 |
Optimized | Best practices are being applied, and the system is capable of learning and adapting The system uses experiences and feedback to correct problems and continuously improve processes and capabilities Future challenges are anticipated, and a plan is in place to address them through innovation and new technology Processes are in place to ensure review and incorporation of relevant innovations | 5 |