A Patchwork Planet Integration and Cooperation in Hospitals

Abstract

Abstract. The 'seamless' integration of a collection of information systems has been recognised as vital in promoting and realising the collaborative aspects of work. This emphasis on the collaborative role of integration supplements other studies in CSCW focusing on more singular tools for collaboration. Empirically, we analyse the design and use of an electronic patient record system (EPR) in large hospitals in Norway. We discuss the conditions for and types of integration of EPR with the host of related information systems in hospitals. We formulate design principles for the integration of collaborative information systems based on a pragmatic study of the productive role of redundant, fragmented and ambiguous information.

Seamless Integration: Standardisation across Multiple Local Settings

“…This identifies and demonstrates discrepancies, work-arounds and glitches in the way information systems are used relative to initial intentions (Berg and Timmermans, 2000;Ellingsen and Monteiro, 2003). This body of literature, typically informed by ethnographically underpinned descriptions of a local work practice, has convincingly demonstrated the value of appreciating situated micro-practices.…”

Innovation Of, In, On Infrastructures: Articulating the Role of Architecture in Information Infrastructure Evolution

“…In addition, the shift from paperbased to system-based documents disrupts the effectiveness of daily routines of document handling (Goh, Gao, & Agarwal, 2011). These alterations are difficult to predict and manage because documents, along with other artefacts in general that are used for organizational coordination, do not work in isolation but are part of a multiplicity of artefacts and technologies that defy easy standardization and integration (Ellingsen & Monteiro, 2003, 2006Hartswood, Procter, Rouncefield, & Slack, 2003). ICT implementations also transform communication practices between health professionals and patients (e.g., Piras & Zanutto, 2010;Vikkelsø, 2005;Winthereik, Van Der Ploeg, & Berg, 2007).…”

Information Infrastructures and the Challenge of the Installed Base

“…The underlying, supporting and often invisible role of this set of technological components and organizational routines is one reason to call this an "information infrastructure". An organization-wide information infrastructure that is deeply embedded into work routines across several departments will be difficult to change, however, careful analysis of all its aspects can inform change strategies (Hanseth and Lundberg 2001;Ellingsen and Monteiro 2003;Silsand and Ellingsen 2014;Petrakaki et al 2016). This underlying and invisible role caused by technology's embeddedness within a work and organizational context is not the only reason to use the label of "information infrastructure".…”