The development of ward nursing information systems and, in particular, the advent of computerised nursing care plans, have caused some controversy and discomfort in professional circles. This article describes how staff in a large general hospital in Tayside set about refining their information technology base, with particular emphasis on the role of the project nurse who had overall responsibility for the implementation of the programme. Despite cautionary words from some commentators, it appears that the computerised care planning module has been received positively by nursing staff.