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Opportunities for using computers in speech and language therapy: a study of one language unit
The British Journal of Disorders of Communication
|August 1, 1991
Summary
Information technology (IT) can aid speech and language therapy, but its use is unsystematic. Applying business systems analysis revealed opportunities for IT integration, though broader organizational changes are needed for maximum benefit.
Area of Science:
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Health Informatics
- Information Systems
Background:
- The integration of information technology (IT) in speech and language therapy is growing but lacks a systematic approach.
- Existing business-world systems analysis methodologies can be adapted to evaluate IT's role in clinical settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the application of soft systems methodology for assessing IT integration in a speech and language therapy unit.
- To identify specific activities within the therapy unit that could benefit from new technology.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Checkland's soft systems methodology, a technique typically used in business analysis.
- Applied this methodology to analyze the operational activities of a speech and language therapy unit.
Main Results:
- The soft systems approach provided valuable insights into the unit's operations.
- Several opportunities for increased computer and technology utilization were identified within the therapy unit.
Conclusions:
- Systematic analysis using business methodologies can reveal potential IT applications in speech and language therapy.
- Effective IT implementation requires organizational-level changes and resource allocation beyond individual departments.