Do you understand the role of software? It's the key to performance of laboratory computer systems

Pathologists making decisions regarding computer applications in their laboratories need to understand all three aspects of computer technology: software, the user interface, and hardware. Of these, software may be the most important. This article identifies problems associated with software usage, taking into account contraints imposed by hardware and personnel, then suggests criteria for evaluating software. If pathologists are to derive maximum benefit from their investment in automated technology, they need to understand the intrinsic role of software in computer-based systems.