ENV-99-185 Designing an EMIS (that people will use...!)

Description:

Information systems that are designed specifically to support environmental, health, and safety (EHS) systems are a popular tool to help managers meet their companies’ requirements. Since systems can be complex and expensive, how can an EHS manager assure that his “EMIS” will be a success, i.e., save time and money, improve efficiency and communication, and eliminate “surprises?” In short, how will the system be user-friendly and how will staff “want” to use it? The authors present their approach to selection and/or design of an EMIS, how to pick features, functions, and modes of operation, and how to make the systems easy to use. An EMIS should support the implementation of the EHS, making it easier for staff at multiple locations to understand the applicable requirements and track their progress towards these goals. The presentation discusses ways to see compliance issues in advance, organize data, track metrics, publish reports, facilitate management review, and re-direct resources. The most popular functions will be discussed, including task management, requirements, company and agency procedures/guidance, facility data, permit information, monthly metrics, audit findings, agency reports, remediation data, multi-media applications, and project management. The authors will present alternatives for configuring hardware and software, and will discuss concerns about security, data preservation, training, and system integration.