Table 2 List of characteristics

Reports system as evidence-based

Coding source states that any aspect of system (e.g., measures, entire systems) is evidence-based.

HIPAA compliant

Coding source explicitly states that system and its components are HIPAA compliant.

HL7 compliant

Coding source explicitly states that system is HL7 compliant.

Adaptive measures

Measures included in system and their included questions are adaptive based on service recipient’s responses.

Generate invoices for the purposes of billing

System generates invoices based on information within itself.

System is an EHR

System explicitly states that it is an electronic health record (EHR).

Reports fulfilling “Meaningful Use” criteria

Coding source explicitly states that system fulfills “Meaningful Use” criteria.

Reports system as Blue Button Compliant

Coding source explicitly states that system is Blue Button Compliant.

Dashboard view option

A dashboard is a single-screen display of the most critical information about a provider’s caseload, updated regularly or in “real time.”

Messaging system for treatment providers

System provides a built-in messaging system for users, e.g. instant messaging, email, etc.

Integration with other technologies

System has ability to be integrated/used with other similar technologies, including electronic health records.

Available training for system use other than demo

System or creating organization provides additional training related to the use of system capabilities and/or the integration of system into agency or organizational workflows. This training occurs one-time and may include remote (e.g., webinar-based) or in-person training.

Available technology support

Tech support involves the availability of individuals with extensive experience in the navigation/use of system itself and problem solving related to issues with the technology of itself.

Available instruction manual for system

There is an available and freely accessible instruction manual for system.

Ongoing support beyond technical support

System or its creating organization provides ongoing support for the implementation of system and its integration into provider workflows, organizational policies, etc. (e.g., continued consultation about its use in clinical care, administrator decision-making based on aggregated data). This support is ongoing over time.

Internet-based

System is fully web-based, accessible via a browser, and is updated without requiring a download to a local machine or device.

Free standing software

System is software that “lives” on a local machine/device (e.g. Microsoft Word) that must be updated by user.

Ability to use on different devices

System has ability to be used on multiple devices/platforms.

Ability to use on mobile devices

System has ability to be used on mobile devices, e.g. PDA, phone, tablet, etc.

Available service recipient portal for data entry

Service recipients are able to enter data directly into system via a dedicated portal (e.g. log-in in waiting room to complete measures before therapy session).

Permission-based log-in for different users

System allows users to provide information remotely through password-protected logins, e.g. service recipient, clinic director, family members, etc.

Available paper format

System facilitates the completion of measures by service recipients via paper and pencil rather than with a computer or mobile device.

Available for purchase/acquisition

System is currently available for purchase or acquisition.

Available demo of system for promotional purposes

A demo of system is available without requiring purchase or acquisition of system.

Contact information of developer

Coding source provides contact information for system’s developer.

Available in other languages

System has built-in, automatic availability in at least 1 language other than English.

Provisions for disabled populations

System contains built-in, automatic capabilities to support its accessibility to disabled populations without the need for additional assistive devices (e.g., visually impaired).