Upgrading clinical genetic pedigree program across the Regions
The Regions are now up and running with an upgraded version of their PASS Pedigree system - and at the same time they have established a strong framework for the future operation and maintenance of the system.
The Regions can gain much from using the same IT systems so that they can exchange information and experience. A centralized management and operation of the systems also makes good sense, both in terms of time and resource consumption. For some time, the Regions have been working on an upgrade of their PASS Pedigree system, which is used to uncover possible hereditary connections within hereditary diseases, including cancer. The upgrade also includes the implementation of the system in two additional departments as well as the establishment of exhaustive documentation and clear processes for changes in the system, so that both use, operation and development are as efficient as possible.
Read about how the upgrade task went.
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"We have come through a constructive process with cooperation and dialogue and have now implemented a system that covers the needs and wishes of the participating departments. And at the same time, we now have a clear and transparent setup that ensures future operation and maintenance in an optimal way."
Challenge
In a previous project, kaastrup|andersen had provided the preliminary analysis and an overall plan for the task of upgrading and consolidating the PASS Pedigree system.
With the preliminary analysis in place, the goal for the upgrade project was:
- to ensure compliance with the EU Personal Data Regulation (GDPR),
- to add some new functionalities,
- to extend the system to two more departments (Vejle and Roskilde),
- to prepare comprehensive documentation for both system and processes to ensure that operations are centralized and managed for the benefit of all departments.
Previously, the management and the operational task had been challenging, as the responsibility was not clearly placed and there had been no clear guidelines and processes for, among other things, handling system changes.
Solution
The Steering Committee acted as an input provider for the requirements specification that was prepared. Each of the 7 departments involved had a representative in the Steering Committee. The chairman of the end user group for the existing system also attended and passed on feedback from the entire user base. At the same time, the members of the Steering Committee facilitated close contact with their departments and ensured that the project gained a local foothold and responsibility. Each department also had a local project manager who was responsible for the implementation in his department, including preparation of PC’s, equipment, instruction of users and more.
The project’s collaboration with the IT department of Region Midt facilitated the process in relation to the necessary replacement of hardware and infrastructure; the IT department provided a contact person who ensured that the project received the necessary support and help throughout the process.
One of the major key tasks throughout the project was the coordination and management of error corrections in the system as it was extended to ensure a comprehensive and robust solution. Preparation of system documentation and recording of processes was also a comprehensive task, which was fundamental to ensure the future operation of the system. The Regions have also hired an IT manager to operate, ensure stability and provide for future developments and/or upgrades to the system.
Result
The project has fulfilled the set goals; the upgraded system has been implemented and is now running in normal operation. The Regions looks forward to experience the effect in the long term - both of the new system, but also very much of the new operational setup and an IT manager who, on the basis of the comprehensive documentation ensures a uniform 'system of governance ' .
The project was very much a management and coordination project that navigated a large and complex stakeholder landscape - a good example of how project management is crucial to creating the desired results.
kaastrup|andersen was responsible for the project management of the project.
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