A chief nursing officer would like to purchase a new nurse scheduling system. Before creating a request for proposal, the CNO should first consult which department?

• A. Supply chain
• B. Legal dept
• C. Information systems
• D. Finance department

Answer: (C)

Focusing on how the new scheduling system will fit and work within the existing IT environment is the key. The information systems department has the expertise to specify technical requirements, identify needed interfaces with the current EHR and other systems, and address data security, privacy, access controls, and interoperability. By involving IS first, the RFP can require precise technical and integration specifications, ensuring any vendor chosen can actually implement and support the system within the organization’s infrastructure.

Supply chain handles vendor procurement and contracts, legal handles terms and compliance, and finance handles budgeting and ROI. These are important, but they don’t provide the technical feasibility and integration perspective needed to craft a realistic and complete RFP.