How not to develop telemedicine systems

The history of telemedicine is characterized by many systems that have failed, or have only lasted a short period of time. Some of the reasons for these failures are discussed. Presented here is a set of six simple rules that have been developed from evidence in the literature, and from personal telemedicine experience, about how to assure the failure of a project. These rules are unfortunately still frequently adhered to and lead to the failure, or the less effective functioning, of telemedicine systems.