Exploring the Difference Between IT and Informatics

Abstract: Are there really differences between an information technology (IT) project and an Informatics project? Public Health Informatics has been defined as the “systematic application of information and computer science and technology to public health practice, research and learning.” In practice, a public health informatics project is an IT project within a public health organization or with implications for public health. However, informatics projects differ from IT projects along several dimensions to include scope, resources, management, stakeholder engagement, requirements and time depending on whether the project is research, a mandate, a new or enhanced application. Though both informatics and IT projects typically follow a standard project management lifecycle of initiation, planning, execution, control and closing, there are some distinct characteristics of informatics projects that are paramount to successful implementation. For example, one must consider team composition. Informatics projects should consist of a multidisciplinary team that includes resources with the appropriate public heath practice, science, communication, technology, and management expertise to successfully implement projects. Additionally, since informatics projects should be solution-oriented, evaluation should be planned at the onset to address the public health impact. These considerations and others will be presented and framed from a federal level.