How I developed an interactive reporting dashboard for the NHS

My aim to understand my chosen field of expertise (health and safety) seemed daunting enough. But my desire to be a manager in this field seemed to be a million miles away – a distant dream.

But I jumped in with both feet. A course here, a book there. I really had no idea of structure, planning or objectives. I wasted valuable time and money and spent most of my time going round in circles. I wasn’t really learning. I did pick up some helpful minor tips, but overall nothing of any great value.

• How I became an apprenticeship ambassador

I was becoming frustrated and tired, and my dream job still seemed as far away as ever. I needed a change of mindset and a totally new plan of attack. 

I needed help. 

Qualifications and a new challenge

It was at this point that research led me to discover CMI. I found the wealth of information slightly overwhelming at first, but as I read through it, from personal stories to articles and self-help advice, I soon realised that what I lacked was a learning and development pathway. 

I needed a defined set of learning objectives to progress, not just as a subject matter expert, but also as an effective, strong and considerate leader in the longer term.  

It was CMI and its professional support/network that gave me the confidence to undertake and pass Level 5 and Level 7 qualifications in leadership and management. 

• How I created a leadership development programme based on CMI principles

These qualifications are the evidential pillar to my competence level and assisted me in securing a position within the NHS. There was no mistaking the immense challenge I had in front of me, but it was one that I welcomed with open arms.

It was while undertaking this role that my life changed forever.

Plan A or nothing

On day two of my employment, I was presented with a blue A4 folder. The folder contained information regarding a recent audit carried out by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The CQC had detailed the requirement for visibility of some specific statutory compliance data. As I read the report for a second time, I already had a vision of how I was going to deliver the evidence in its return inspection. There was, however, a major flaw in my plan – my IT skills did not at that time match my vision.