You should start the paper by describing what a SWOT analysis is and
why it is usually done.
In the first section when you
are describing the technology – make
sure to include description of (1) software (2) hardware (3) networks (4)
operations and (5) employee skill set. Points will be deducted
per the grading rubric if all of these elements are not addressed. You may want
to start small focusing on a unit or area of a hospital that you are familiar
with versus an entire health system unless you are well versed on the entire
organization.
When you are discussing
strengths and weaknesses, it
should talk about all the same 5 areas identified above, not
just the EHR. Strengths and weaknesses are considered INTERNAL factors
that could provide an organization benefits or challenges against other
competition. Maybe the unit has outdated computers that are slow and freeze.
Maybe the unit does not have enough computers for patient load. Maybe the wifi
does not work in all areas, or maybe it does and is an asset. Are there
strengths to the operations on the unit? Is the leadership experienced, or
maybe there is an interim manager new to the organization? Maybe it is hard to
get education out to staff? Finally – what are the employee skills –
experienced staff or new nurses? Strong technologically, or no? These impact
the overall ability for a unit/organization to operate efficiently.
Your opportunities
discussion should be suggestions to remedy two of the weaknesses you identified
in the strengths/weaknesses discussion. These should include what 2 technological solutions could
improve the weaknesses noted, specifically to assist in improving quality of
care, patient safety, or patient outcomes.
Threats are external
and are negative to the organization – and you cannot really stop them from
occurring.
Examples include security threats, challenges in the current healthcare
environment across the US – such as staffing shortages, etc. It usually
includes some kind of mention to the competition in the area – who are an
organization’s biggest competitors and how this may impact the
organization.
Part of the grading rubric
includes creating a SWOT
diagram or chart that briefly summarizes the above items (see
Module 9 for an example). There may be other SWOT diagram templates available
on the internet to use as examples. Include
your SWOT diagram in the appendix.
You are not limited to a set
page length. What’s more important is that you meet the grading criteria. Also – follow APA formatting so you
don’t lose any points there. Take a few minutes to review the sample paper
online at the following site (student version) to easily check how your
formatting should look: APA Sample Paper // Purdue Writing Lab
