The role of simulation in clinical information systems development

This paper describes the role of simulation involving end-users in Health Informatics. Simulation has long been established as a widely accepted method in clinical skills training. During the last decade simulation has also gained a place in the development and evaluation of clinical information systems. Simulation is especially well suited for the evaluation of human factors and organizational aspects in relation to application of information systems. In full-scale simulation tests it is possible to evaluate socio-technical interaction. A near to real life experience can be achieved by creating high fidelity environments. The paper discusses how simulation may be used during the lifecycle of clinical information systems, and the requirements on simulation fidelity in various situations. We recommend that simulation should get a more prominent role in the design and evaluation of clinical information systems.