| In order for the PbS project to cost-effectively collect and manage data from dispersed sites, Abt Associates, Inc. has developed and implemented an innovative online data collection and reporting system. The system has received positive reviews from project participants and could serve as a prototype for programs with similar requirements. Facility staff use the project's password-protected World Wide Web site (www.performance-standards.org) to enter data periodically, view and download graphic performance reports, assess problem areas, and access resources for improvement. An integral feature of the PbS model, the web-based system: (a) reduces the cost of project participation; (b) makes the data collection process more efficient, improves data quality by checking information as it is entered; (c) provides facilities with regular performance reports; (d) gives facilities the tools to diagnose problems, develop solutions, and track their improvement over time; (e) encourages facilities to integrate information technology into their daily operations; and (f) helps facilities to institutionalize a process of continuous self-improvement. As the project expands, new facilities can be added to the system at very low cost, The website will also include a monitoring system for use by project staff to track facilities' progress and to analyze outcomes and improvements across facilities. |
Updated 05/20/2006