IMPACT4: a framework for rapid, modular construction of web-based patient decision support systems and preference measurement tools.

To support the rapid creation of software systems that provide patients with decision support and measure patients' preferences, we have develop a framework called iMPACT4. The framework, which combines XML and Flash, has rich client-side state navigation control capabilities, reusable components, cross-platform compatibility, and facilitated access for persons with disabilities. It has many of the advanced navigation capabilities of complex server controlled web software while retaining an architecture that allows automated generation of web sites similar to our previous software system iMPACT3.