communication and storage of scientific information

any organisation that employs a significant number of employees needs to have a structure that allows the organisation to function

in most large scientific organisations there is a hierarchy

this means that the most senior people will have others that report to them

structure of organisation

• the structure depends in a number of factors

• the size of organisation

• the particular routines that are carried out

• whether the organisation is spread over several sites or concentrated on a single site

• whether the organisation is split into different groups or teams

typical structure

reporting of results

• the results generated in a scientific workplace need to be communicated to those that need to know them

• day to day results will be recorded via computer based reporting system,lab notebooks,printouts from equipment and at team meetings

• all of those methods may be used for generating reports that get sent to those who need them

blood tests

• blood samples are routinely taken from patients for a variety of tests on the blood

• the doctor initiates the test

• several lines of communication are required what information needs to be and to whom? - their surgical history,blood history,infection,allergies etc etc

• people in the lab needs to know where the sample of blood comes from,patient details and the test that needs to be done

scientific terminology

• in communicating information it is important that the correct terminology is used and understood by all members of the team regardless of location

• this is important to prevent confusion from occurring if information is shared by a number of different sites

security

• information must be kept secure so that only those people who need to use the information can access it

• examples of need for secure information

• results of drug trails

• personal medical records

roles and responsibilities

• it is important that every member of a team knows what they are supposed to do in the workplace

• a well organised workplace will have key roles defined and will have individuals to whom a person can go when they need guidance

communication

• formal ::

• memo

• letter

• meeting with minutes

• email

• informal::

• chat

• text

• social media

what does the senior manager need to know

• staff numbers - people off sick and on training

• quantity and quality of work by staff

• results of work being carried out

• accidents /health and safety issues

• faulty or outdated equipment

• any other problems