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1 – 10 of 42The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate ways in which innovative thinking can bring about radical change to organisations. It aims to identify some of the many creative ways…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate ways in which innovative thinking can bring about radical change to organisations. It aims to identify some of the many creative ways this innovative thought can be liberated from staff members using quality processes, and argue that a structured, quality approach to engaging staff in improvement and innovation can bring about this radical change.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper consists of a combination of case study based material and includes the author's opinion and interpretation. The integral focus is on encouraging innovation from within, implementing ways to involve staff members and introducing structured, gradual, change. The paper uses examples of organisations across varied industries to showcase how they have accomplished this task.
Findings
Developing collaborative environments and encouraging employee contribution to facilitate innovative thinking can liberate not only employees but the whole organisation. The case study organisations featured have found that introducing new methods of innovation can provide a manageable process, which over time can result in significant change.
Originality/value
This paper sets out the systematic approach organisations should follow to unlock the creative power of their employees, develop fast and stay ahead of the competition. It argues that in the current economic climate, organisations will need to make these radical improvements in order to survive and prosper.
Details
Keywords
THE new library building has been open for six months now. It is pleasantly situated in an area of new buildings, and occupies a prominent island site just on the edge of the…
Abstract
THE new library building has been open for six months now. It is pleasantly situated in an area of new buildings, and occupies a prominent island site just on the edge of the shopping centre. The old library was in the middle of a shopping area, and it has been interesting to note that our removal from that site has had a more considerable effect on the traffic pattern than one would have thought.
Sandra C. Buttigieg, Wilfried von Eiff, Patrick Farrugia and Maximilian C. von Eiff
Point-of-care testing (POCT) at the Emergency Department (ED) attains better objectives in patient care while aiming to achieve early diagnosis for faster medical decision-making…
Abstract
Purpose
Point-of-care testing (POCT) at the Emergency Department (ED) attains better objectives in patient care while aiming to achieve early diagnosis for faster medical decision-making. This study assesses and compares the benefits of POCT in the ED in Germany and Malta, while considering differences in their health systems.
Methodology/approach
This chapter utilizes multiple case study approach using Six Sigma. The German case study assesses the use of POCT in acute coronary syndrome patients, compared to the central lab setting. The Maltese case study is a pilot study of the use of medical ultrasonography as a POCT to detect abdominal free fluid in post-blunt trauma.
Findings
This study provides clear examples of the effectiveness of POCT in life-threatening conditions, as compared to the use of traditional central lab or the medical imaging department. Therapeutic quality in the ED and patient outcomes directly depend upon turnaround time, particularly for life-threatening conditions. Faster turnaround time not only saves lives but reduces morbidity, which in the long-term is a critical cost driver for hospitals.
Originality/value
The application of Six Sigma and the international comparison of POCT as best practice for life-threatening conditions in the ED.
Details
Keywords
Nicholous M. Deal, Christopher M. Hartt and Albert J. Mills
Aarhus Kommunes Biblioteker (Teknisk Bibliotek), Ingerslevs Plads 7, Aarhus, Denmark. Representative: V. NEDERGAARD PEDERSEN (Librarian).