Human factors for capacity building: lessons learned from the OpenMRS implementers network.

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Open Source Software Development
• Community Building

Background:

• OpenMRS is a vital open-source medical record system.
• Strengthening the OpenMRS community is crucial for its continued success and adoption.
• Implementers require dedicated support and resources for effective deployment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the OpenMRS community through capacity building and networking.
• To establish a forum for OpenMRS implementer-specific challenges.
• To provide regional support, mentorship, and training for OpenMRS users.

Main Methods:

• Facilitating face-to-face meetings and workshops.
• Utilizing online collaboration tools and peer mentorship programs.
• Implementing capacity development, community outreach, and internship programs.

Main Results:

• The OpenMRS Implementers Network has supported implementations in over 23 countries.
• Mentorship and peer support were provided via annual meetings, workshops, and internships.
• Collaborations with other open-source networks and development of regional Centers of Excellence were established.

Conclusions:

• Community-driven open-source models thrive on social organization and capacity development.
• Effective networking and support structures are key to the growth of OpenMRS.
• Investments in community building enhance the sustainability and adoption of open-source health software.