Human resource problems during software conversion at Johnson Regional Hospitals: a teaching case

Abstract

This teaching case recounts several human resource management problems encountered by an information technology contracting firm as it assisted a regional hospital chain with an electronic medical records software conversion. The case presents issues pertaining to training (e.g., needs assessment, training methods and evaluation), as well as personnel selection and US-based legal concerns (e.g., the Family and Medical Leave Act). Other managerial and organisational behaviour issues also emerge pertaining to group dynamics, intergroup conflict, and unprofessional employee behaviour. Undergraduate students in human resource and organisational behaviour courses are asked to identify what the managers did correctly and incorrectly, apply theories and resolve problems.