title: Challenges and solutions for using informatics in research.
abstract: Computer technology provides innovations for research but not without concomitant challenges. Herein, we present our experiences with technology challenges and solutions across 16 nursing research studies. Issues included intervention integrity, software updates and compatibility, web accessibility and implementation, hardware and equipment, computer literacy of participants, and programming. Our researchers found solutions related to best practices for computer-screen design and usability testing, especially as they relate to the target populations' computer literacy levels and use patterns; changes in software; availability and limitations of operating systems and web browsers; resources for on-site technology help for participants; and creative facilitators to access participants and implement study procedures. Researchers may find this information helpful as they consider successful ways to integrate informatics in the design and implementation of future studies with technology that maximizes research productivity.
authors.affiliation: University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing, 845 South Damen Avenue, Chicago, IL 60612, USA. cryan4@uic.edu
authors.forename: Catherine J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Ryan
authors.forename: Heeseung
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Choi
authors.forename: Cynthia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Fritschi
authors.forename: Patricia E
authors.initials: PE
authors.lastname: Hershberger
authors.forename: Catherine V
authors.initials: CV
authors.lastname: Vincent
authors.forename: Eileen Danaher
authors.initials: ED
authors.lastname: Hacker
authors.forename: Julie J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Zerwic
authors.forename: Kathleen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Norr
authors.forename: Hanjong
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Park
authors.forename: Sevinc
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tastan
authors.forename: Gail M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Keenan
authors.forename: Lorna
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Finnegan
authors.forename: Zhongsheng
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Zhao
authors.forename: Agatha M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Gallo
authors.forename: Diana J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Wilkie
mesh_terms: D003197:Computer Literacy; D020407:Internet; D048108:Nursing Informatics; D015399:Nursing Research; D012984:Software
keywords: Internet; computers; nursing; research challenges; technology challenges