A framework for designing sustainable telemedicine information systems in developing countries

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for designing sustainable telemedicine information systems in developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used. Primary data were collected from two hospitals in Uganda using a self‐administered questionnaire and an interview guide. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey data, while content analysis method was used to analyze interview responses. The framework was developed based on Hevner et al.'s design science framework.

Findings

The key requirements for designing sustainable telemedicine information systems in developing countries were identified as the need for speed, ease of use and affordability.

Research limitations/implications

This study was theoretical in nature. Although primary data were used, the researchers were unable to carry out a series of practical tests of this framework with prototype systems on a cross‐section of users.

Practical implications

Design and sustainability of telemedicine information systems is still a big challenge to most developing countries, despite its wide usage in the developed countries. While various telemedicine frameworks exist, not much has been done to adequately address the issue of design for sustainability. This paper proposes an appropriate framework that will guide telemedicine information systems designers on designing telemedicine systems that are sustainable in local conditions of developing countries.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is in the area of information systems design for sustainability, from a developing country perspective. The paper also extends on the constructs of design science research theory and shows how they can be applied in information systems design and evaluation.

Citation

Mayoka, K.G., Rwashana, A.S., Mbarika, V.W. and Isabalija, S. (2012), "A framework for designing sustainable telemedicine information systems in developing countries", Journal of Systems and Information Technology, Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 200-219. https://doi.org/10.1108/13287261211255329