IT debate: Can apps replace server-based software?

It is time to look beyond the traditional server-based software model in favour of smart device apps to provide desired functionality and reduce ICT costs in aged care.

That’s the argument Sundale CIO Gavin Tomlins will be making at the upcoming IT conference Make HASTE (Health and Age Services Technology Ecosystem) Expo, which is a project of the Caboolture/Sunshine Coast Aged Care Workforce Innovation Network (WIN) taking place in Caloundra next week.

Mr Tomlins is participating in a 30-minute team style debate titled ‘Can apps replace the need for server-based software systems.’ He said the debate aimed to be thought-provoking and stimulate a sector-wide discussion.

“Historically we have all these big middleware clients and massive projects to try to get functionality but with half of this debate we are looking at whether a number of small consumer apps, which are specifically focused to do a particular task, can do the same job.

“With the recent boom in consumer devices and health apps, obviously led by Apple, there are a plethora of small focused applications coming on the market which you can download for minimal cost,” Mr Tomlins told Australian Ageing Agenda.

Mr Tomlins, who is captain of the affirmative team and its representative CIO, is bringing on a mobile app developer and middleware integrator to present his case. The opposing side, which is being led by Suncare ICT manager Priscilla Jones, will be represented by a traditional aged care software vendor and an aged care provider that wishes to stay on the traditional software platform, he said.

“I don’t know if there is any right or wrong answer at this present point in time but we want to challenge people to look beyond the status quo to see what direction we are going to take.”

Registration giveaway

Make HASTE Expo has been developed by the region’s WIN. During the project’s ‘Reform Ready Reviews’ among aged care organisations, the integration of IT systems was identified as a high priority for service providers on the Sunshine Coast.

Former premier of Tasmania David Bartlett will MC the event and give a key note presentation on how the current great digital disruption will impact organisations. Futurist and University of the Sunshine Coast lecturer Sohail Inayatullah will discuss alternative futures of health and ageing, while Associate Professor Valerie Gay from the University of Technology Sydney will showcase interoperability in action highlighting the benefits and challenges.

CS&HISC business partner Katie Brown, who is coordinating the regional project, is calling on representatives from the age services, health and disability sectors to come along to the event.

“We want to encourage disability and health providers to work with aged service providers because we are the largest employing body in this region. And HASTE will provide a platform for collaboration and partnerships to form,” Ms Brown said.

There are also limited trade spaces available for those with technology to showcase, she said.

GIVEAWAY: Sundale, the project lead, in conjunction with the Caboolture/Sunshine Coast WIN, is offering two Australian Ageing Agenda readers free registration to attend Make HASTE Expo on Monday 19 May at the Caloundra Events Centre.

Tell us in 25 words or less your opinion on the debate topic: Can apps replace the need for server-based software systems? 

Email entries to editorial@australianageingagenda.com.au before 4pm, Friday 9 May.  AAA will select the best two responses and contact the winners directly.

Please note, this offer includes the event registration only and does not include any travel, accommodation or other costs that may be involved in attending the event.