HOSPITALS
" When we had to redeploy staff during the pandemic internally and to the regional surge centre , it meant we had a single , real time picture of what staffing looked like on the ground which also supported operational decision making ”.
This real time workforce intelligence also helps the trust be more efficient on a day-to-day basis . " The real time eRoster system has improved visibility - not with a big brother focus , but as a hospital we can see at a glance who is available to call in an emergency when needed . We can ensure we have the right person , with the right skills , in the right place at the right time ."
However digitising the workforce has come with challenges too . Laura Green , Senior Workforce Project Manager , cites fear of change as one issue , along with staff simply not wanting the visibility . Another challenge has been ensuring they engage staff who are nervous about new technology .
To do this the Digital Workforce Team provides plenty of support . " The team has grown from two eRoster administrators , to a whole Digital Workforce Team of 17 with extensive reach and influence . We run regular drop in sessions , new user training sessions and provide call centre type customer service to 4000 people now ”.
Just as important has been how the team has implemented each new software platform . When it comes to implementing something new or engaging a new staff group , the team uses plans that work best for the Trust . " We don ’ t follow any particular project methodology , but put implementation , mobilisation , readiness and training plans in place that work to the strengths in our team ”.
“ Having joined up systems helps support smarter ways of working ”
DEBORAH CHAPMAN ASSISTANT DIRECTOR , DIGITAL WORKFORCE
46 October 2021