Informatics as Science

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Informatics
• Health Informatics
• Scientific Progress

Background:

• The field of informatics plays a crucial role in modern biomedicine and healthcare.
• Its evolution over seven decades is attributed to creative research and documented learning.
• Iterative experimentation, learning, and sharing are fundamental to scientific disciplines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the nature of scientific progress in the field of informatics.
• To highlight the importance of identifying and sharing scientific underpinnings for optimal field progression.
• To underscore the connection between informatics applications and their scientific foundations.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of scientific progress in informatics.
• Review of historical development and documentation practices in the field.
• Discussion of the role of shared lessons and methods.

Main Results:

• Informatics' success is linked to documenting research processes and outcomes.
• Scientific progress relies on identifying and sharing key lessons and methods.
• The field's application-driven motivation must be balanced with robust scientific underpinnings.

Conclusions:

• Sharing scientific insights and methods is essential for the optimal advancement of informatics.
• Documenting what is learned, not just what is done, fuels iterative progress.
• Balancing application-focused research with foundational science ensures informatics' continued impact on biomedicine.