Developing technology applications for intervention research: a case study.

The REACH for TLC (telephone-linked care) project is a randomized study to assess the feasibility and usefulness of a computer-mediated telecommunications system for family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease. The development of this automated system created technical challenges compounded by the participation in a national multisite research study. Issues arose due to the difference of cultures between researchers and technology developers. Strategic approaches were implemented proactively and during the course of the intervention to balance the competing demands of technology development and outcomes research. Key issues are discussed and recommendations made to assist others interested in developing technology-based applications for intervention research.