Managing the implementation of an innovative technology in a hospital: a case study

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a model of radio frequency identification (RFID) implementation process in a hospital. The model is developed to fill the lack of models on RFID implementation in a hospital setting.Design/methodology/approachThe case study research and grounded theory approaches are combined. The data are collected through repeat interviews with the hospital's RFID manager and the IT vendor. The data are analysed using the grounded theory approach.FindingsThe main finding of the paper is the RFID implementation process model in a hospital. The model consists of key activities that have occurred during the unfreezing, moving and refreezing stages of the implementation.Research limitations/implicationsThe generalisability of the model may be limited because it is based only on a single hospital's RFID implementation.Practical implicationsRFID managers in hospitals need to be aware that the technology's implementation is no different to other types of information systems implementation. However, they also need to be aware of the contextual differences in their hospitals before the model can be adapted.Originality/valueThe RFID implementation process model could guide existing and future RFID managers in hospitals. The three stages of the model will enable the managers in identifying the different emphasis needed in each stage.