I conducted an independent review of the NT Hearing Health Information Management System Project for the NT Department of Health.
Problem Statement/Opportunity: The Hearing Health Information Management System (HHIMS) project was launched to improve hearing health services in the Northern Territory, especially for Aboriginal children with conductive hearing loss. However, the project encountered significant challenges, necessitating an independent review to evaluate its viability, assess project management processes, and determine its alignment with stated objectives and community needs.
What I Did/Delivered: I conducted a comprehensive independent review of the HHIMS project. This involved scrutinizing the project’s scope, objectives, and intended outcomes, as well as its management practices and stakeholder engagement strategies. The review meticulously evaluated the project against its business case, timelines, and budget, and included extensive consultations with stakeholders, including health professionals and Aboriginal community representatives. The aim was to provide an objective assessment of the project’s progress and strategic direction.
Outcomes: The review culminated in a set of recommendations, which were accepted by the project’s governing body. Notably, the assessment concluded that the HHIMS project was not fit for its intended purpose. Consequently, the decision was made to discontinue the project. This outcome, while challenging, was a critical step in ensuring resources were not expended on a project that was unable to meet its objectives. The review’s findings helped redirect focus towards more effective solutions for addressing the hearing health needs of the Territory children, ensuring better allocation of efforts and resources.
