Identifying and preventing technology-induced error using simulations: application of usability engineering techniques.

In this paper, we describe a framework for the analysis of technology-induced errors, extending approaches from the emerging area of usability engineering. The approach involves collection of a rich set of data consisting of audio and video recordings of interactions of healthcare workers with health information systems under simulated conditions. The application of the approach is discussed, along with methodological considerations and issues in conducting such studies. The steps involved in carrying out such studies are described along with a discussion of our current work. It is argued that health care information systems will need to undergo more rigorous evaluation under simulated conditions in order to detect and prevent technology-induced errors before they are deployed in real healthcare settings.