Critical Dimensions of Blockchain Technology Implementation in the Healthcare Industry: An Integrated Systems Management Approach

In the digital era, almost every system is connected to a digital platform to enhance efficiency. Although life is thus improved, security issues remain important, especially in the healthcare sector. The privacy and security of healthcare records is paramount; data leakage is socially unacceptable. Therefore, technology that protects data but does not compromise efficiency is essential. Blockchain technology has gained increasing attention as it ensures transparency, trust, privacy, and security. However, the critical factors affecting efficiency require further study. Here, we define the critical factors that affect blockchain implementation in the healthcare industry. We extracted such factors from the literature and from experts, then used interpretive structural modeling to define the interrelationships among these factors and classify them according to driving and dependence forces. This identified key drivers of the desired objectives. Regulatory clarity and governance (F2), immature technology (F3), high investment cost (F6), blockchain developers (F9), and trust among stakeholders (F12) are key factors to consider when seeking to implement blockchain technology in healthcare. Our analysis will allow managers to understand the requirements for successful implementation.

Reference management software preferences among liberal arts faculty

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine faculty preferences and attitudes regarding reference management software (RMS) to improve the library’s support and training programs.

Design/methodology/approach

A short, online survey was emailed to approximately 272 faculty.

Findings

Survey results indicated that multiple RMS were in use, with faculty preferring Zotero over the library-supported RefWorks. More than 40 per cent did not use any RMS.

Research limitations/implications

The relatively short length of the survey precluded a more detailed investigation of faculty attitudes. The 20 per cent response rate, although typical of surveys of this type, may over-represent those faculty who have strong attitudes toward RMS. These findings support the necessity of doing more research to establish the parameters of the RMS environment among faculty, with implications for support, instruction and outreach at the institutional level.

Practical implications

Surveys should be conducted to establish local faculty RMS usage and preferences, as they may differ from both published findings and local expectations. Because it is unlikely that faculty will overwhelmingly use one RMS, libraries should plan to support multiple RMS.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to investigate the issue of RMS faculty preferences in a liberal arts setting.