Preconstruction planning for a supportive material management system.

Development of a construction or remodeling program for a materials management function is more than architectural and construction planning. If done properly, the process needs to consider issues and concerns much broader than those traditionally faced by the materials manager. By following these steps and insisting on the input of many disciplines within the hospital, the materials manager can minimize both the frustration which normally surrounds facilities development and the time required for the process. Most importantly, the completed materials management department will maintain its effectiveness longer because it has correctly anticipated the future.

The earlier the better: the importance of equipment planning.

New technologies and medical equipment can constitute up to 25 percent of the cost of developing alternative care services. This article describes a process for integrating equipment planning with the hospital's strategic planning efforts.