Networking in the Vancouver Hospitals: An Incremental Management Approach

摘要

This paper describes a multi-site network application involving electronic transmission of video, audio and data among five teaching hospitals in Vancouver, B.C. The rationale behind a network approach is explained and the system design is outlined. The network includes both long-haul cable based network technolgies (LHN) and Local Area Network technologies (LAN) that currently integrate 2 mainframes and 11 mini computers operating in the five sites. Philosophical and strategical approaches to implementation of the network are explained. Particular attention is drawn to the notion of the incremental management of change and the role of product champions. It is suggested that the use of network technology enables a wide variety of semi-autonomous departments and computer applications to “touch without intrusion.” It is emphasized the implementation of such change requires sophisticated technical and human engineering skills.