Application of Program Evaluation and Review Technic (PERT) to laboratory research and development planning

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Project Management
• Medical Laboratory Science

Background:

• Research and development (R&D) project management in academic medical centers faces challenges in timely completion.
• Effective planning tools are crucial for navigating complex projects within healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the utility and efficiency of network planning techniques (CPM and PERT) for R&D projects in academic medical centers.
• To demonstrate how iterative network planning can maintain project timelines amidst unforeseen challenges and demands.

Main Methods:

• A case study was conducted on implementing transcutaneous pCO2 monitoring in a laboratory medicine department.
• Critical Path Method (CPM) and iterative Project Evaluation and Review Technic (PERT) analyses were employed for project planning and management.
• Personal computer (PC) based project management software was utilized.

Main Results:

• Iterative PERT analyses successfully kept the project on schedule, overcoming an optimistic initial completion estimate.
• The implementation facilitated intense demand for the new monitoring technique in neonatal respiratory disease management.
• The iterative management approach enhanced project participants' skills in deadline estimation and adherence.

Conclusions:

• Network planning techniques, adaptable to microcomputers, significantly improve R&D project management efficiency in academic medical centers.
• Iterative network planning is a robust strategy for managing complex medical projects and improving team performance.