Assessing the potential of change in institutions

Abstract

The present article discusses the importance of evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of key institutional personnel prior to attempting program innovations. The importance of such individuals in "making" or "breaking" effective programs is emphasized, and various key hospital staff members are described. A simple evaluation process is discussed with the purpose of better anticipating problem areas in program development. It was concluded that in some cases, project implementations should not be attempted when assessed personnel problems appear capable of seriously limiting the effectiveness of a program.

‘The more things change the more they stay the same’: factors affecting the implementation of the nursing process

“…the 'who' of innovation. Glenn & Richards (1977) warn of key personnel who 'make or break' these developments and Wilkinson (1973) emphasizes the 'gatekeeper' role that such staff play. This emphasis has led to psychometric studies of staff as a way of understanding innovation resistance and acceptance.…”