Achieving strategic excellence in healthcare projects: Leveraging benefit realization management framework

Abstract

Healthcare organizations face increasing challenges in ensuring that projects align with strategic goals and deliver measurable, sustainable benefits. Traditional project management methodologies often emphasize execution but neglect the systematic tracking and sustainment of outcomes. This paper introduces the Benefit Realization Management Framework (BRMF) as a comprehensive approach to bridging this gap, integrating tools such as the Benefit Map, Benefit Profile, Benefit Register, Benefit Process Checklist, and BRM Plan, which are applied iteratively across the project lifecycle phases: Identify, Plan, Execute, and Sustain. To demonstrate its versatility, the paper presents three hypothetical case studies: Machine Learning for Chronic Disease Management, focused on reducing hospital readmissions and improving patient adherence; Electronic Health Record (EHR) Implementation for Care Coordination, aimed at enhancing interoperability and reducing documentation errors to improve patient outcomes; and Process Improvement in Patient Discharge Workflows, designed to streamline procedures and increase throughput. These case studies illustrate the BRMF’s adaptability to diverse project types, from clinical innovations to technological advancements and operational improvements. The paper highlights how the BRMF ensures strategic alignment, promotes accountability, and delivers sustained value across healthcare contexts, providing actionable insights for project success. Finally, the paper discusses the implications for healthcare leadership, the importance of embedding benefit realization practices, and potential areas for future research and validation.