Scenario-based design: A method for connecting information system design with public health operations and emergency management

Two researchers iteratively coded interview transcripts for area manager information needs ( use of constant comparative methodsScenarios of use developed through scenario-based design (scenarios of use applied on recent critical event at the time of the study: snow storm)

Semi-structured interviewsQualitative data analysisScenario-based designValidation surveys and think-aloud protocol

Engagement of participants through participatory design:1-hour interviews focused on area managers, who play a key role in decision-making during routine and emergency operations (over a 4-month period)Guide for semi-structured interviews was:Based on prior field work at the study settingAnalysis of continuity of operations planning (COOP)Documents from the local health jurisdictionSystematic review of literature covering public health, information technology, and COOP.

Collection done through pilot interviews and validated interviews.

Explore the use of scenario-based design as an approach to engage public health practitioners in the creation and validation of an information design to support routine and emergency work activities

Resource management systems exist for clinical settings, an open-source or commercial system that meets public health needs for integrating and visualizing employee data from different sources to assist with decision-making was n.a..( An existing open-source public health GIS tool to support the scenarios of use was modified: Prototype developed: Continuity of Operations Data Analysis (CODA)Validated through formative evaluation using a think-aloud protocolCODA provides resource management and location information about staff at public health centers.

Develop descriptions that characterize the context of work for area managersIdentified 25 individual information needs.Creation of a persona based on common participant characteristicsDevelop 25 scenarios of use designed to satisfy identified information needs. ( The design of the scenarios was guided by the persona description and a critical incident (snow storm context)

Interviews were recorded with the permission of each participant

Investigate the information needs, communications and work processes of managers of multiple facilities that require support during routine and emergency operations at a large local health jurisdiction.The interview guide covered the following six areas: Professional public health background of each participantNormal duties, decisions and use of technologiesDecisions and communication channels used during routine vs. emergency operationsBarriers and needs to successful communication with staffCurrent understanding of the continuity of operations planInformation about a recent regional snow storm as critical incident.