What Is Master System Integration in the Healthcare Sector?

Over the past five years, you may have noticed that property technology in healthcare is evolving at an increasing rate.

Modern buildings now come equipped with comprehensive ICT networks for building services, public Wi-Fi infrastructure, a high density of devices, advanced sensing, control systems and cloud applications. However, this technological proliferation introduces challenges, particularly regarding system compatibility, connectivity and cohesive project completion.

Historically, each product supplier handles integration and networking independently, often leading to siloed systems and outcomes. Today, the systems’ increasing complexity and interconnectedness necessitate a coordinated approach. This is where the role of a Master System Integrator (MSI) can become critical. 

An MSI is an expert in both operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), ensuring seamless integration and networking across various systems.

Operational Intelligence (OI), an Australian Master System Integrator (MSI) with experience in complex integrated precincts internationally shares insight in regards to Best In Class practices to ensure clients’ systems are integrated and functioning seamlessly and for cohesive delivery. 

Procurement Review

While experts in their field, the supply chain may not always have the big picture necessary to understand what is critical outside the siloed product. An MSI ensures that all procured technology products comply with design documentation and other project technology requirements. This critical step guarantees that each product is supplied with the correct parts and firmware necessary for project connectivity.

Detailed Design Coordination

The MSI takes an owner and operator perspective about outcomes and from that position incorporates requirements into the design of the engineering ICT network. MSIs assist design teams by organising network addressing, VLANs, cyber rules, and network compatibility. For example, the determination of the number of data ports needed by the Building Management System (BMS) and the exploration of secure and cost-effective methods to connect to the ICT network.

Bench and Factory Acceptance Testing

Before installation, MSIs facilitate offsite testing to ensure different technologies can communicate effectively. For example, testing the interaction between security access and lift systems allows the project team to resolve issues before commissioning. For example, sometimes custom integrations or firmware updates will need to be applied. By applying a factory testing procedure these bugs can be ironed out well in advance of the installation and commissioning of various technologies.

Commissioning and Witness Testing

MSIs provide the oversight and management of the commissioning process to ensure the technology functions as per design intent. When thousands of devices are involved, a comprehensive process for validation and recording the location and operation of these devices is crucial for a facility’s ongoing, effective operations. This can incorporate resolving issues not traditionally found in construction such as firmware lockout dates, the latest technology deployment and change management planning for post deployment support.

Change Management and System Maintenance

Post-handover, MSIs manage firmware updates, network monitoring, cyber protection, and change management. MSIs ensure that ICT technologies remain secure, structured, and reliably documented throughout the property’s operational life.

MSI expertise can assist stakeholders in healthcare facilities navigate the complexities of modern technology to ensuring robust, secure and efficient operations.

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Disclaimer: The content within is the opinion of the author and engineering team of Operational Intelligence.

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