Examples of Standardization: Summary
The first strategy used to standardize products, experiences, and service lines to enhance efficiency is personalization. This approach focuses on the ability to offer specific services or products that can address the diverse needs of individuals. The method ensures more clients receive suitable products. The second one is the use of electronic systems such as the electronic health record (EHR) system. This standardization strategy ensures all services or goods are delivered in a convenient manner (Leotsakos et al., 2014). The third standardization method is known as forecasting. The method predicts the future needs and expectations of the targeted clients.
Pros and Cons
Provision of Personalized Services or Products
This method of standardization will ensure the demands of more customers are met. Wastes are minimized because the available services will target specific clients. The strategy will eventually improve customer satisfaction and manage cost (Wharam & Weiner, 2012). However, the strategy might be less effective for organizations serving clients with diverse needs or expectations. The approach might also result in increased expenses.
Electronic Record (ER) Systems
Modern technologies will enhance decision-making and service delivery. Real-time recommendations and services will be available to the customers. New adjustments can be made to boost efficiency and performance. Unfortunately, the use of ER systems can be costly (Wharam & Weiner, 2012). Experts should be hired to monitor the systems continuously.
Forecasting
This technique has been observed to result in cost savings. Modern innovations might emerge and result in quality service delivery. Some of the main pros of forecasting include lack of transparency, inadequacy, and focus on cost-saving (Wharam & Weiner, 2012).
Comparison With Other Strategies
Manufacturing industries have been characterized by appropriate standardization techniques that can add value to their clients and manage costs. One of these methods is the use of oversight and monitoring. With effective scrutiny, many firms have been able to make product adjustments depending on the changing needs of the clients. This method is superior to the above three approaches (Leotsakos et al., 2014). Oversight compels institutions to offer adequate services and products to the customers. The second method is the use of standardization laws or regulations. When such laws are in place, firms are forced to stick to specific standards whenever serving their clients (Wharam & Weiner, 2012). The other technique is the use of voluntary quality standards. Institutions focusing on such standards will be on the frontline to deliver adequate services to their customers. Unlike forecasting, such standards guide every phase of the customer service delivery process. The ultimate goal is to ensure the changing needs of the clients are addressed.
Application in the Healthcare Field
Healthcare institutions can benefit significantly from the above standardization initiatives. For instance, stringent measures can guide hospitals to offer personalized care, improve service delivery channels, and address the needs of more populations. Monitoring is a power capable of minimizing risks, reducing barriers, and improving service delivery. Health facilities can also use quality standards to improve their patient strategies (Leotsakos et al., 2014). Regulations can minimize disparities, increase transparency, and improve performance.
Importance of Standardization
The concept of standardization has the potential to address the barriers and pitfalls associated with healthcare forecasting. The approach can force players to focus on the unique needs of underserved populations. The initiative can ensure healthcare institutions operate within the law. Standardization is also used to make appropriate improvements to ensure more patients “receive quality health services while at the same time sticking to fiscal responsibility” (Leotsakos et al., 2014, p. 112). Standardization, therefore, promotes efficiency, cost management, and client satisfaction.
References
Leotsakos, A., Zheng, H., Croteau, R., Loeb, J., Sherman, H., Hoffman, C.,…Munier, B. (2014). Standardization in patient safety: The WHO high 5s project. International Journal for Quality in Health Care, 26(2), 109-116.
Wharam, J., & Weiner, J. (2012). The promise and peril of healthcare forecasting. American Journal of Management and Care, 1(1), 82-85.