Efficiency and Usability Gains through Digital Management: a Comparative Study in Dental Education

Area of Science:

• Dental Informatics
• Knowledge Management Systems
• Clinical Workflow Optimization

Background:

• Conventional file-based systems present challenges in clinical information retrieval.
• Efficient access to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is crucial for consistent clinical practice and education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a software-supported knowledge management system on clinical workflows and dental education.
• To compare user experience and efficiency against a conventional file-based approach.

Main Methods:

• Twenty participants (10 specialists, 10 students) completed standardized information retrieval tasks using both systems.
• Processing time, User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) scores, and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha, Guttman's lambda-2) were assessed.
• Statistical analysis included two-way ANOVA and industry benchmarking.

Main Results:

• The software system significantly reduced processing time for both specialists and students (p < 0.001).
• Markedly higher user experience scores were achieved across all UEQ dimensions (p < 0.001), especially in efficiency and dependability.
• High internal consistency confirmed the reliability of user feedback.

Conclusions:

• Software-supported knowledge management systems enhance efficiency and user experience in clinical settings.
• Structured access to validated SOPs via software may improve dental education and clinical practice consistency.
• Further research is recommended to confirm educational and patient care impacts.