Implementing the model Medicaid management information system

An almost unanimous conclusion of recent research into the problem of implementing information systems is that implementation must be viewed as an ongoing process rather than the last phase of a project effort. Success is won or lost all through the analysis, design, and developmental phases and by the care and flexibility with which the early phases' plans are refined during the final installation of computer programs and administrative procedures. A related conclusion is that information systems, when in place, become dynamic parts of their organizations. Implementation must continue, with the system evolving with the organization. This paper draws on the authors' observation of the process of implementing the MMIS in Minnesota. They offer some normative conclusions and recommendations to guide other States' MMIS efforts and other efforts in building large scale information systems, particularly in the public sector.