Development of an Automated Blood Inventory and Information System for a Regional Transfusion Service

A prototype automated blood inventory and information system (ABIIS) designed to play a major role in management of blood resources for a large metropolitan area has been installed and placed in operation. Proposed use of the system to support all phases of Blood Center operation (i.e., input, distribution, and output of blood) is discussed and preliminary data on cost‐effectiveness are given. Additional experience and experimentation is required to fully document the value of this program. Results to date suggest, however, that the improved service, and increased operating efficiency gained from automation on this scale are more than sufficient to justify the costs incurred.