Why don't innovation models help with informatics implementations?

This paper describes various models that have been postulated to understand and explain the acceptance and diffusion of technological innovation. The wide range of factors relating to the innovation itself, and, most importantly, the human and organisational factors which will impinge on these processes, is detailed. Attempts to apply the model to healthcare settings are explored. In particular a systematic review in 2005 which attempted to integrate the models and apply them in the UK's National Health Service will be critiqued. The strengths and weaknesses of the models are explored, particularly in relation to the minimal testing they have been subjected to. It is argued that the complexity of the theoretical models makes them difficult to apply and questions their efficacy in supporting informatics implementations. The need for a clearer understanding of the factors which make staff positively disposed towards informatics innovation, and those which are likely to make them resist them is made apparent.