backpackEMR
The Challenge
We were asked to propose additional ways to collect, organize, and view data to improve the speed with which staff can provide care, along with easing the difficulty of reporting on the impact and value of the treatment provided.
The Process
Research the problem space
Journey map use of backpackEMR
Test concepts via Kano analysis
Prioritize features within the budget
Wireframe proposed changes
The Solution
Our suggestions included ways to put some of the data that is currently collected on paper into a digital format, which would improve both the real time status tracking for inventory and patients, as well as the ability to sort and organize the information electronically.
Research
We began by performing some research on other EMR systems in order to better gauge common functionality and interface patterns across the various systems. This knowledge would prove helpful as we started to sketch some of the changes we were considering. Our client then estimated the difficulty of implementing each feature, allowing us to understand which could feasibly be completed within the development budget.
Journey map showing the experience of the staff using backpackEMR
Journey Mapping
During this time, we were making journey maps of both the current and future experience for the medical staff and volunteers who would be utilizing the system. This visual format allowed us to better comprehend the pain points and areas of opportunity that our proposed changes could address.
Whiteboard with the results of our Kano analysis
Kano Analysis
We also created a survey for Kano analysis so that we would gain insight into which features might prove to be higher priorities to implement along with the respondent’s reasoning for why. Once we had the results, we charted the responses and could see how valuable some of those features might actually be to the people who would be using the system.
Developer Consultation
Meanwhile, the developer provided estimates on how much time our proposed features would take to implement. Combined with the knowledge we had from our users, we now had enough information to decide which features would provide the greatest value while remaining within the budget. Among the multiple proposals was an electronic inventory system that would track the current status of the medications and equipment, while also providing usage data for future planning.