The successful implementation of health information systems in complex health care organizations ultimately hinges upon the receptivity and preparedness of the user. Although the Information Age is well underway, user resistance to information systems is still a valid concern facing the informatics community. This book provides effective management strategies to health care administrators, for the productive integration and maintainance of such information systems. The Second Edition covers three main areas: technical skills, project management skills, and organizational and people skills, including the practical implementation strategies necessary to make the system an operational success. The text will be complemented by 40 illustrations and 20 tables, as well as providing more guides and "how to" information, which are of great use to the reader. Key topics include: setting the stage; strategic vision, direction, and project planning; critical issues in project planning and management; critical design issues; the implementation process; negotiating political minefields; the critical role of leaders and leadership; dealing with end stage people issues; evaluating project success; managing the altered organization; and organizational and personal preparation for the future.The audience for this book consists of those who require sophisticated health information systems, namely health care administrators, CEOs, clinicians, IT developers, librarians, and professors.

Nancy M. Lorenzi is Professor of Biomedical Informatics and Assistant Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs at Vanderbilt University Medical Center located in Nashville, Tennessee.