TURF: toward a unified framework of EHR usability

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Software Engineering

Background:

• Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are critical in modern healthcare, but their usability remains a significant challenge.
• Poor EHR usability can lead to user frustration, errors, and reduced efficiency.
• Existing usability frameworks lack a unified, objective approach for EHRs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the Task, User, Representation, and Function (TURF) framework as a unified approach to EHR usability.
• To establish a theory, method, and process for defining, measuring, and designing EHR usability.
• To demonstrate the application of TURF in evaluating and improving EHR systems.

Main Methods:

• Developed the TURF framework, defining usability based on task, user, representation, and function.
• Created a set of objective measures for the useful, usable, and satisfying dimensions of usability.
• Applied TURF in case studies to measure usability, explain differences, and guide redesign efforts.

Main Results:

• TURF provides a scientifically coherent and unified framework for EHR usability.
• Usability can be objectively and systematically measured using the TURF framework.
• Case studies demonstrated TURF's effectiveness in identifying usability issues and guiding improvements.

Conclusions:

• The TURF framework offers a robust methodology for advancing EHR usability.
• Objective measurement and systematic design are key to enhancing EHR user experience.
• TURF has the potential to inform future EHR usability guidelines and standards.