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February 29, 2012 By Brian Heaton
New technology might make life easier for many, but it was “old-school” management from Stanley Stewart that helped the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) turn the corner on deploying its benefits eligibility system.
The Texas Integrated Eligibility Redesign System (TIERS) had limped through an eight-year implementation period littered with failures, multiple integration companies and criticism. But in early 2010, Stewart was hired as a consultant by Tom Suehs, executive commissioner of the HHSC, to turn around the troubled project. Armed with total authority over the implementation, Stewart completed the TIERS rollout in December 2011.
This wasn’t unfamiliar turf for Stewart, who ran a similar project in Michigan. He says his management style in Texas was predicated on convincing employees they’d be successful despite earlier struggles.
He said staff members “were a little demoralized” from previous failures — and communications between technology staff and system users needed to improve immediately.
Stewart intentionally started weekly progress meetings five minutes early to increase employee accountability. “You weren’t allowed to take a shot at anybody, and we didn’t play the blame game,” he said.
Using a phased approach, Stewart’s team first rolled out TIERS in Lubbock, followed by a larger deployment in El Paso. With each success, employees further bought into Stewart’s approach, ultimately finishing the job three months ahead of schedule.
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This is an awesome recognition and honor for him. He did great for us here in Michigan and we miss him greatly!
Mr. Stewart is a very wise in many ways. We could not have rolled TIERS in Texas with out him. He is a leader for sure. We have learned so much in the last 2 years while implementing TIERS in Texas. I feel honored to have worked side by side with Mr. Stewart through out the rollout. He is a great Man and always keeps his word. I am very proud that Commissioner Tom Suehs picked Mr. Stewart for the implementation of TIERS and what a Great success. This is a great honor! Congratulations
A lot of people were afraid of Mr. Stewart, but it comes down to just doing your job. If you do you job right, then he is the nicest man. But, if you were not doing your job right, then he would hold you accountable. Which is a rare find now days. Congrats to Mr. Stewart for making this nomination!!
Mr. Stewart is a very intelligent man, who knows the true meaning of the word success. He expects perfection from his staff, because that is what he expects of himself. I feel very honored and privileged to have met him. Congratulations Mr. Stewart, you certainly deserve this great recognition.
Texas was very fortunate to have someone like Mr. Stewart assist us with TIERS. He showed us that action speaks louder than words. We owe a great deal of our success to Mr. Stewart. Congratulations! and keep on doing what you do best!