Using process visualizations to validate electronic form design

Electronic reporting systems have the potential to support health care quality improvement initiatives across varied health care settings, specifically in low-technology settings such as long-term residential care facilities (LTRCFs). Yet, these organizations face financial barriers to implementing such systems and the LTRCF workforce is generally not as technology-ready as larger organizations' workforces. Electronic reporting systems implemented in these settings must therefore be inexpensive and easy-to-use. This paper outlines a novel technique - process visualization - for systematically assessing the order in which users complete electronic forms, an inexpensively-developed patient falls reporting form in this case. These visualizations can help designers uncover usage patterns not evident via other usability methods. Based on this knowledge, designers can validate the design of the electronic forms, informing their subsequent redesign.