Software Tool Implementation in a Hospital: Using Metaphorical Design

Implementing a software tool in a hospital can be challenged by many factors which can be social organizational and technical. To understand the nature of these challenges the literature review identified sociotechnical perspective which considers human and technical factors as constituents of one system. Further analysis identified metaphorical design as an approach to address implementation challenges. This approach emphasizes producing system design that is adaptive to its context which can increase the systems’ chances of being accepted and implemented. Principles and concepts obtained from this analysis were applied to the development of a software tool supporting medicine reconciliation process which is part of quality use of medicines strategy implemented in the hospital.