Step-by-Step Guide: Workload analysis tool

1. Consider the following:

• How will the data be used and who will take the responsibility for this?
• Are you prepared to allow your data to be shared with other practices for benchmarking?
• Do you need any other audit tools, eg MMR audit?

2. Consult with suppliers

The Workload Analysis Tool (WAT) is available for use with all of the major clinical systems. For more information about the availability of the Workload Analysis Tool, please contact Informatica Systems on 0845 680 1347 or www.informatica-systems.co.uk.

This might, of course, not be the only supplier of this particular software and practices may wish to undertake their own research.

3. Make an informed decision

What are the other sources of data available to you? Are they readily available and is the data recent and validated? Ask the supplier if you can speak to other users of the WAT before signing up to a year’s licence. You might be able to have the WAT for a month’s trial before committing to purchase.

4. Change process

Agree an implementation date. Allow some time to read the user guide and have some questions that you would like to use the tool to explore. Start with some simple examples where you can validate the data. Arrange a staff meeting to discuss the data, or interpret the results with your Patient Participation Group.

5. Monitor, evaluate and audit

Consider how you might evaluate the effectiveness of the WAT for your practice. Before the licence is due for renewal spend some time evaluating the benefit and cost‑effectiveness of the WAT.

What has changed within the practice as a result of the WAT? Have you shared your data with any other primary care organisation? Have you planned how you might use the tool in the coming year?