Selection of hospital information systems: user participation

Motivated by economic and quality management issues, many hospitals strive for the introduction of information systems into the clinical environment. To introduce the most suitable software product, a systematic selection procedure is required involving all affected staff. The paper describes a methodology that guides the clinical users to an objective motivated decision. This semi-formal methodology is necessary in view of missing standard models for the description of hospital information systems and leads to high acceptance in practical use. The methodology consists of structured product demonstrations with a quantitative assessment, benefit-value-analyses based on step weights for the functions needed, and test installations. Prerequisite of this procedure was the definition of objectives and priorities in a standard catalog that was used as reference in the whole project. Selecting a software product following this systematic procedure establishes a sound basis for a successful application in the clinical environment.