A strategy for empowerment: the role of midwives in computer systems implementation

The procurement and implementation of patient administration systems has been done on numerous occasions in the past. The Rotunda project however encompassed major bespoke clinical developments which were going to impact upon large clusters of midwives, and medical staff to a lesser extent. A broad based four level structured methodology was used to implement the project which is significantly ahead of schedule. This methodology together with its strengths and weaknesses is comprehensively discussed. The empowerment of midwives, their roles in systems analysis and design, software testing and organisational re-engineering is described. The importance of undertaking comprehensive computer training is highlighted and a compact 10 h information technology course coupled with ongoing educational and related activities which could be adopted by any organisation is documented. The seven deadly sins of project management are mapped out. An update on benefits realisation is provided. Gender issues are also discussed.