# How Data Velocity Enhances Decision Quality Real-time data access saved 25% in test costs for physicians' decision processes. - **Source:** [Strategic Management Journal](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10970266) - **Published:** 2026-08-19 - **Topic:** [Data & AI](https://brifing.si/c/data-ai) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/bf184c18-44ba-4c4e-8d4c-a1dedc23acd3 ## The Critical Role of Data Access Speed The research reveals that how quickly decision-makers access information is as crucial as the volume of data they possess. Studying 64,152 decisions by 387 physicians, the study demonstrated that a system displaying test results in real-time enabled more targeted data collection. This approach resolved uncertainty earlier, accelerated decision processes, and ultimately improved outcomes. ## Transformation in Emergency Departments Implementation of a real-time dashboard in hospital emergency departments eliminated delays in accessing lab results. Even without changing the information itself, faster access led physicians to order fewer but more precise tests. This strategy resulted in a 25% reduction in testing costs while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. ## 75 Minutes Saved Per Patient Rapid data access reduced average patient length of stay by 13% (approximately 75 minutes). Faster decision-making decreased hospitalization rates while improving patient satisfaction. These effects were particularly pronounced during high workload periods and in rare cases where early signals proved most valuable. ## The Value of Early Signals The study highlights the critical role of early signals in decision quality. Physicians with faster information access collected more focused data and utilized early indicators more effectively. This not only accelerated decisions but fundamentally improved how decisions were made, creating a dual advantage for healthcare providers. ## Managerial Implications Findings demonstrate that investments improving data velocity can simultaneously enhance both efficiency and quality. Tools reducing friction in data access provide competitive advantage not just through speed, but through superior decision-making capabilities. Organizations should evaluate data access bottlenecks as strategic improvement opportunities. ## Cross-Industry Applications While focused on healthcare, these insights have significant implications for other industries. Fields involving high-risk, time-sensitive decisions—such as finance, logistics, and manufacturing—could achieve similar benefits by improving data velocity. The principles of accelerated, focused information gathering translate across decision-making contexts. ## Technology-Human Interaction The research quantifies how technology transforms human decision processes. Even simple interface improvements like dashboard implementations can significantly enhance complex decision mechanisms. These findings underscore the growing importance of user experience design in high-stakes decision environments. ## Future Decision Support Systems Results indicate data velocity will play a central role in next-generation decision support systems. Combining real-time data streams with AI and machine learning could further enhance decision quality. Organizations making strategic investments in these areas are likely to gain long-term competitive advantages in their respective fields. ## Sources covering this story - https://sms.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smj.70110?af=R — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._