AHIC Review Course 2: Strategic Planning - VMOSA, HIT Alignment, and Leadership

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on strategic planning, VMOSA components, HIT/HIS alignment, vectors, pitfalls, and example visions/ missions.

What is strategic planning?

A systematic process to assess the environment, envision a desired future, translate it into organizational goals and objectives, identify actions and resources, and define how progress will be measured.

What time horizon do strategic plans typically cover?

3- to 5-year horizon.

How does strategic planning differ from tactical planning?

Strategic planning focuses on long-term goals and direction, while tactical planning defines interim objectives and the how-to details for achieving them in the short term.

Who is responsible for determining the right direction and focus in strategic planning?

The governing board with input from stakeholders.

What does VMOSA stand for?

Vision, Mission, Objectives, Strategies, and Action Plans.

What is the Vision in VMOSA?

The future state of the organization, about five years out; inspirational and memorable.

What is the Mission in VMOSA?

Why the organization exists; who its customers are and what it does for them; concise and memorable.

What are Objectives in VMOSA?

The expected outcomes or goals that specify what, how, and when the organization aims to achieve.

What are Strategies in VMOSA?

High-level plans that describe how to accomplish the objectives; do not include budgets or detailed resources.

What are Action Plans in VMOSA?

Tactics with assigned responsibilities, deadlines, and identified resources to implement strategies.

Why is the Vision considered a critical part of leadership in strategic planning?

It inspires and motivates people toward a higher purpose and anchors the plan.

How should organizational values be used in strategic planning?

They can be articulated as guiding principles to align plans with values and ensure alignment.

What do Objectives define in VMOSA and other frameworks?

The endpoints or outcomes the plan hopes to achieve over time.

What is the difference between Objectives and Strategies?

Objectives define endpoints; Strategies explain how to reach them and are typically high-level without budgets.

What are the four vectors for HIT strategy development?

1) Organizational strategies, 2) Continuous improvement of core processes, 3) Examination of new technologies, 4) Assessment of strategic trajectories.

What is the purpose of an inventory of applications in HIT planning?

To identify the applications needed to fulfill strategies and inform data strategies, governance, and staffing.

Name a common strategic planning pitfall.

Focusing on individual actions or tactics at the outset rather than on corporate strategies.

What did Kenny (2016) say about strategic planning vs strategic plans?

Strategic planning is more important than strategic plans; plans are guidance tools, not rigid controls in uncertain environments.

What is ongoing monitoring in strategic planning?

Regular measurement and reporting of progress toward organizational strategic goals.

What is environmental scanning in strategic planning?

Assessment of internal and external environments, an early step in the process.

Give an example of a pediatric health system vision mentioned in the notes.

Best care … Healthier kids.

Give an example mission for a cancer hospital mentioned in the notes.

To eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public.