Information technology solutions performance

Performance risk is the degree of uncertainty inherent in the procurement and application of information technology solutions that may keep the system from meeting its technical specifications or from being suitable for its intended use and the consequences (Browning, 1999). The most important aspects of performance—those contributing most to performance risk—will vary with the needs and desires of the pharmacy (Barker et. al., 1998). 

Levels 1 and 2 of Information Technology are characterized by point solutions, generally intended to improve some facet of performance for an internal function and, as we note, a silo mentality exists within the company. No consistent use of technology resources occurs as most work is devoted to getting the basic systems in place, particularly accounting. Companies often outsource a portion of the effort with little or no strategic benefit. Few corporate standards are in place as divisions and business units set their own directions. The architecture is usually product based. If there is a corporate architecture, it is from a centralized team and is often an academic exercise that is little used. 

There are some aspects of process design in which decisions are based primarily on past experience rather than on quantitative performance models. Problems of this type include the selection of constraction materials, the selection of appropriate models for evaluating the physical properties of homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures of components, and the selection of safety systems. Advances in expert systems technology and information management will have a profound impact on expressing the solutions to these problems. 

MeItTran, Inc. (MeItTran), has developed the Ultimate Solution, an ex situ vitrification technology that uses a direct current (DC) arc system to treat hazardous wastes. The vendor claims that organic materials are destroyed by the technology and that inorganic materials are melted and cooled into a leach-resistant final waste form. RIMS were unable to obtain information from the vendor in regards to performance or commercial availability. 

Written, monthly reports from each plant cover performance, safety and loss incidents, and the status of plant projects and developments. Statistics are supported by narratives describing product and process problems and solutions, equipment problems and changes, capital projects, and other information. These reports, shared with other plants within the Technology Center s scope, are an important resource for people responsible for production performance, quality, and safety. 

---