Abstract
The journey to a productivity management system entails the implementation of a core of four systems. Each system is independent yet interdependent on the others. Patient classification is the first step on that journey. Terms must be defined, policies and procedures established, forms developed, and consistent education applied. This is a complex project. Creating a network of different facilities all using the same system exponentially increases that complexity. That complexity is worth the effort because the outcome gives a capability to benchmark with other facilities, make decisions concerning professional resources based on data and choice instead of chance, and support nursing practice.