“Interoperability refers to the ability of two or more systems or components to exchange information and to use the information to make better decisions. The term is often used in a technical engineering sense and also in a broader sense, taking into account social, political, and organizational factors that impact performance.
Too many barriers stand in the way of clients getting the services they need. ‘Interoperability’—a national effort of technological and programmatic coordination—is poised to eliminate many of those barriers. Today, the emergence of ‘interoperable technology’ offers an unprecedented opportunity to connect systems across traditional boundaries in exciting and rewarding ways. This interconnectivity represents the cutting edge for development of new service models and approaches to maximize positive outcomes for children, families and communities.”
Taken from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families. More information is available in the Administration for Children and Families’ Interoperability Toolkit