Optimizing Operational Efficiency with Technology: Tools of the Trade

Session Description: This session will address strategies/technology for the continuing medical education team, allowing them to work smarter rather than harder. This program is for individuals that are new to continuing medical education, who many not be familiar with various types of technology and tools that can be utilized to increase the efficiency and marketability of education programs. Presenters will demonstrate various types of  web-based platforms and discuss the strengths and challenges associated with implementation and budget considerations. Items addressed will cover the spectrum from activity planning to implementation and attendees will see examples of how different web-based platforms can automate the operational aspects of continuing education. 

This session will provide a review of the different web-based platforms available and will highlight the following:

• Application: Used for most CME activities, the application is used to gather key criterion elements. This review will highlight an automated process that also allows for dashboards to measure if criteria have been selected for commendation. 


• Activity Management: This section will highlight how a web-based management system can allow CME teams to automate the process of program registration, certificate management and transcripts for attendees. 


• Promotion / Marketing: Participants will not automatically attend a program unless providers are aware of the program. this section will highlight tools for creating professional fliers to promote activities; as well as email platforms and strategies for communication programs. 


• Event Management: Automated activity check-in and name tags to improve efficiency; printed rosters and check-ins are no longer needed for attendance. With automated check-in, create attendance reports. This section will also discuss ways to engage attendees with polls and questions for online or in-person programs.


• Evaluations: Eliminate paper evaluations and manual tabulation with the utilization of online platforms. A review of the frequency of evaluations for various types of CME activities to maximize the feedback received ti improve and measure continuing education. 

With each section, a case study will be highlighted that will demonstrate the old and new process, highlighting the optimized operational process that resulted in increased efficiency. 

After attending this program, participants will be able to evaluate their various processes to determine where technology can provide more efficient ways of accomplishing what is required and valuable. Additionally, a resource list will be provided of various web-based platforms.

Innovation: This session will highlight the advantage of utilizing technology to replace manual processes increasing the operational processes and efficiencies. By reviewing different web-based platforms that are available, solutions will be provided on how aspects can be completed in a more timely and effective manner. Additionally, by reviewing what is being done, the process and question is to why it is being done a certain way will assist in improving the efficiencies of CME administration.