Using past performance tests to improve investments

Selecting the best investment policy or management style to generate a high level of return is an important decision for any CFO. Guidance can be given to help CFOs choose the most appropriate management style for their own particular institutions. With the use of computer-simulated tests, CFOs can predict the return on investment that can occur if a particular investment policy or style is chosen, and CFOs can determine, in advance, the most rational and advantageous investment approach to take for their institutions.

Informational needs for a product line management system

Changing to a product line management structure requires a total dedicated effort from hospital management. The information systems support requirements are diverse and often call for both the further integration of existing capabilities as well as the development of new ones. The reporting structure must address the profit and quality management objectives assigned to both product line and functional managers. A thorough planning and evaluation process that recognizes the institution's unique objectives is the key to successful implementation. This article is the final in a series on product line management in health care. The previous two articles examined the concepts and evolution of product line management and the alternative product line organizational models.

Developing strategic planning systems for health care organizations

Health care administrators have the unique opportunity to devise strategic planning systems (SPSs) that exclude many of the shortcomings exposed in the SPSs of companies in traditional industrial settings. Here, the problems and potentials of SPSs for health care firms are framed in terms of three major dimensions of the strategic planning system: information, communication, and involvement.

MedCenters Health Plan case study

This case history will describe how the planning department at MedCenters Health Plan, a large multidisciplinary group practice in Minneapolis, Minn, uses its information system to support decision making.

Evaluating future ventures with microcomputer-based models

Traditional planning methods are taking a backseat as computerized planning and venture analysis models are becoming a key part of strategic planning in today's competitive healthcare market.

Financial modeling on a microcomputer

Used to assist hospital financial managers in making business decisions, the cost-effective system described herein was developed because of competition in the marketplace and frequent changes in patient service demand.