In the evolutionary era within all industries through digital transformation, HSCC (India) Ltd has emerged as a leader in leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance innovative efforts in the health infrastructure sector. As one of the premier organisations of the public sector consultancy, HSCC specialises in designing and developing hospitals and healthcare infrastructure, HSCC has embraced IT solutions to optimise project management, enhance operational efficiency and deliver better healthcare outcomes. From advanced project management tools and healthcare IT solutions to protecting sensitive data, HSCC stands at the forefront of the entire digital transformation journey that India is undertaking. In a recent interaction with Ajay Kumar Nema, GM IT, HSCC highlighted how HSCC is navigating the challenges of digital transformation, the role of emerging technologies like cloud computing and data analytics, and what innovations soon will shape HSCC’s digital infrastructure.
How has HSCC India Limited leveraged IT to drive digital transformation within its operations, especially in the healthcare infrastructure space?
HSCC (India) Limited has been leveraging information technology (IT) to drive digital transformation within its operations, particularly in the healthcare infrastructure sector. As a prominent player in healthcare and infrastructure consultancy, HSCC has recognised the transformative potential of IT to enhance its service offerings, optimise project management, and improve healthcare delivery. Here’s an overview of how HSCC has integrated IT to advance its operations:
Project management and collaboration
HSCC has adopted advanced project management software and tools to streamline the planning, execution, and monitoring of infrastructure projects. The organisation can efficiently manage resources, timelines, and budgets. Tools like AEC collection- Architecture, Engineering and Construction, BIM Collaborate- For 3D Digital model, BEXEL Manager Revit software with AutoDesk are deployed to create detailed 3D visualisation, clash detection, cost estimate, BOQ, schedule of work and see physical and functional characteristics of the building.
Healthcare IT solutions for HSCC clients
In the healthcare infrastructure domain, HSCC integrates various IT solutions to improve hospital management and patient care. This includes the development of Digital Network Infrastructure, implementation of Hospital Management Information Systems (HMIS), Electronic Medical Records (EMR), Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), Queue Management Systems (QMS) and others. HMIS helps in managing patient information, administrative tasks, and clinical workflows, while EMR systems facilitate the digital storage and retrieval of patient records, enhancing accuracy and accessibility. PACS enables the digital storage, retrieval, and sharing of medical imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs. This not only improves the efficiency of diagnostic processes but also enhances collaboration among healthcare professionals by allowing them to review and discuss images remotely. QMS plays a crucial role in healthcare, especially in reducing the turnaround time (TAT) for patient-related processes such as diagnostics, treatment, and discharge.
IT solutions for HSCC
HSCC has implemented a mobile and geofencing-based attendance system on a PAN India basis. All the attendance-related data is online and available for MIS and salary-related purposes. Implementation of the latest ERP has allowed HSCC to connect all site offices, zonal and regional offices to the head office centrally, and effectively implemented an e-billing system.
What role do data analytics and cloud computing play in HSCC’s efforts to streamline project management and improve overall efficiency?
Data analytics and cloud computing play pivotal roles in HSCC (India) Limited’s efforts to streamline project management and enhance overall efficiency, particularly in the healthcare and infrastructure sectors. These technologies help HSCC to manage complex projects more effectively, optimise decision-making and improve resource allocation.
One of the roles of data analytics in streamlining project management is predictive analytics for project planning. By using predictive analytics, HSCC can forecast potential risks and challenges during the project lifecycle. This involves analysing historical data, industry trends, and project-specific variables (such as location, materials, labor availability, and environmental factors) to predict delays, cost overruns, or resource shortages. Predictive analytics helps in timely interventions, budget optimisation, and efficient resource allocation.
Cloud computing offers a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective platform for managing and storing data. It allows HSCC/client to store project data/medical data in centralised, cloud-based platforms. This ensures that all project stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and clients have access to the same information in real-time. Cloud platforms make collaboration easier by ensuring that updated project documents, designs, and schedules are available to everyone, regardless of their geographic location. Cloud infrastructure is highly scalable, allowing HSCC and its clients to adjust their computing resources based on the specific needs of a project.
What are the biggest challenges you face in implementing digital transformation initiatives, and how do you overcome them?
Implementing digital transformation initiatives comes with several challenges:
- Resistance to change: Employees may be hesitant to adopt new technologies
- Data security concerns: As organisations move to cloud platforms or adopt digital tools, protecting sensitive data becomes a priority. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures, encryption, and access controls can mitigate these risks.
- Integration with legacy systems: Many organisations rely on outdated systems that may not be compatible with modern technologies. Old physical health infrastructure creates challenges for deploying the latest IT infrastructure.
- Cost constraints: Digital transformation can be expensive, requiring investment in new technologies and infrastructure. Organisations can overcome this by prioritising high-impact projects and adopting scalable cloud solutions to optimise costs.
- Lack of skilled personnel: Digital transformation requires expertise in emerging technologies like AI, big data, and cloud computing. Addressing this involves upskilling current staff, hiring specialised talent, and leveraging partnerships with technology vendors.
All the above challenges can be overcome by
- a) Encouraging the employees to adopt new technologies.
- b) Regular training and development
- c) Partnerships with startups, technical providers, and government Institutes.
How is HSCC ensuring the security and integrity of sensitive data, especially with increasing reliance on digital platforms and tools?
HSCC (India) Limited ensures the security and integrity of sensitive data, particularly with its increasing reliance on digital platforms and tools, by implementing a multi-layered approach to data protection. This strategy includes the following key measures:
Robust cybersecurity framework
HSCC deploys a comprehensive cybersecurity infrastructure that includes firewalls – internal and external, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to monitor and protect against potential cyber threats. These systems provide continuous surveillance of the network, flagging suspicious activities and preventing unauthorised access.
Data encryption
Sensitive data, including healthcare records and project information, is encrypted. Encryption ensures that even if data is intercepted or accessed without authorisation, it remains unreadable and unusable.
Access control and authentication
HSCC deploys a Network Access Controller (NAC) to limit access to sensitive information only to authorised personnel. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is also enforced to add a layer of security, ensuring that only verified users can access critical systems and data.
Regular security audits
To ensure ongoing data integrity and security, HSCC conducts regular security audits and assessments of its digital platforms. These audits help identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with the latest security protocols and regulations.
Cloud Security
For cloud-based platforms, HSCC partners with reputable cloud providers who follow industry-leading security practices. These providers offer data redundancy, regular backups, and disaster recovery plans, ensuring data availability and protection from loss or corruption.
Staff training and awareness
HSCC regularly trains its employees on cybersecurity best practices and the importance of data security. Awareness programs help staff recognise phishing attacks, social engineering threats, and other risks.
What future IT innovations or technologies do you foresee playing a pivotal role in enhancing HSCC’s digital infrastructure and operational capabilities?
In the future, several key IT innovations will play a pivotal role in enhancing HSCC’s digital infrastructure and operational capabilities, particularly in healthcare and project management.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
AI and ML will drive significant improvements in efficiency and decision-making. These technologies can help HSCC optimise project management by using predictive analytics to forecast delays, cost overruns, and resource allocation challenges. In healthcare, AI-powered diagnostic tools will support clinical decision-making by analysing medical data faster and with greater accuracy. AI-based automation will also streamline administrative tasks, allowing for faster project delivery and enhanced operational efficiency.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The integration of IoT will revolutionise the monitoring of healthcare infrastructure and project sites. Smart sensors installed in hospitals or construction sites can track real-time equipment usage, energy consumption, and environmental conditions. This enables predictive maintenance, reducing downtime, and ensuring that healthcare facilities operate smoothly. IoT will also enhance safety and compliance by continuously monitoring critical systems.
5G connectivity
5G technology will significantly enhance communication across HSCC’s projects. With high-speed, low-latency data transmission, 5G will facilitate real-time collaboration between teams, whether in the office or on-site. For healthcare, 5G will enable telemedicine, allowing specialists to consult patients remotely with high-quality video, and facilitate real-time remote diagnostics.
Blockchain technology
Blockchain offers immense potential for secure and transparent data management. In HSCC’s healthcare projects, blockchain can be used to securely manage patient records and ensure the integrity of financial transactions. Its decentralised nature ensures that data is protected against unauthorised access or tampering, offering enhanced data security.
Mobile apps for project management
Mobile applications can simplify project tracking and communication. With dedicated apps, HSCC can monitor project progress, share updates, and manage resources directly from smartphones or tablets, allowing teams to stay connected and updated on the go.
These technologies will improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enable smarter, more responsive project management and healthcare solutions for HSCC.