Getting Ahead of the Impact: Process + Structure = Outcomes

Many years ago, I walked into a hospital pharmacy (yes, in the basement) and the pharmacy director had this phrase in big bold letters on his chalk board:

Process + Structure = Outcomes

Many years ago, I walked into a hospital pharmacy (yes, in the basement) and the pharmacy director had this phrase in big bold letters on his chalk board ‘PROCESS + STRUCTURE = OUTCOMES’. We had a good discussion on the meaning of this in his organization and I left with some much-appreciated insights. Organizations today many times struggle to move initiatives forward. Why? The issue is relatively simple, we are all human, and as humans, we really do not communicate well (just ask my wife).

We are all busy, we ingest information differently and we communicate information externally differently, both in person as well as electronically. This ‘gap’ in our communication styles is largely why process is so important. In almost all of D2’s engagements we help our partners by bringing process. That Process is Structured, managed, and measured to ensure that we drive the right Outcomes for that specific initiative. This ‘Process’ is many times driven through detailed project plans structured to the specific needs of that partner. Using Market Access as an example the Process includes a detailed plan of activities which can encompass introductory information, clinical information, contracting, terms and conditions, formulary tracking etc. This is Structured in a manner that is laid out to address timelines such as, PDUFA dates, shipping dates and other considerations as needed. The Outcomes are then measured in a predetermined timeline to ensure progress is being met. While not a panacea, I would suggest that this simple formula Process + Structure = Outcomes can help many of us enact measurable initiatives that can help us drive success forward.