QIAstat-Dx Analyzer - UX-Optimized Rapid Test for Coronavirus & Co

To carry out as many tests as possible and as quickly as possible is the order of the day when infectious diseases such as COVID-19 affect entire countries and even continents. A situation like this is where the QIAstat-Dx Analyzer shows its full potential: A precise, well thought-out workflow allows samples to be analysed quickly, eliminating the need for lengthy training or familiarisation for medical personnel.

Qiagen - Qiastat-DX

Front view of the white STAT Diagcore liquid analyzer from Qiagen with a large touch display and four analysis modules.
Qiastat-DX Client: Qiagen Disciplines: UXD - IFD - ID - ME

THE TASK

In the course of normal, day-to-day operations, many clinics still contend with a notorious lack of personnel, a problem which only becomes more acute in the event of an epidemic. With personnel working at their limit, there remains little time to train new colleagues in the professional handling of medical equipment. Complex systems, for example for analysis procedures, must therefore be as simple, intuitive to operate and self-explanatory as possible.

THE SOLUTION

The intelligent system’s elegant modular design supplements additional analytical procedures, and the corresponding devices can be simply docked onto the basic module.
This, in practice, can enable smaller clinics or emergency teams with reduced equipment to carry out fast diagnoses directly on site.
All devices are controlled via a single screen. The analyses run simultaneously and their results are then centrally evaluated. A clear visual user interface guides and supports the user during its operation.

A laboratory assistant with a sample on Qiagen's QIAstat Analyzer.
A laboratory assistant is placing a sample to be analyzed in Qiagen's QIAstat Analyzer.

Test, Test, Test - no Problem with our Prototypes

When designing the QIAstat-Dx Analyzer, we adopted a holistic, user-centered UX approach from the very beginning.
We began with field research in three European clinics to identify user needs and everyday problems. In our development approach, we began with a technically innovative solution and then proceeded to synthesise an appropriate high-fidelity prototype. This was again tested intensively by the three clinic target group in iterative loops and successively further optimised. The final test iteration, during which the design was fine-tuned, concluded the project.

An Unmistakable and Uniquely Iconic Language

TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
TODO
Representation of the user interface of Qiagen's QIAstat Analyzer, which invites the user to put the sample into the device.
Representation of the user interface of Qiagen's QIAstat Analyzer, which shows an ongoing test.
Representation of the user interface of Qiagen's QIAstat Analyzer, which shows test results of a sample.

User Journeys for Professionals & Newbies

No matter how unfamiliar a user might be with the QIAstat-Dx analyzer, its user interface offers accessibility to everyone. Inexperienced users are guided through the system by step-by-step instructions, whereas experienced users profit from the practical shortcuts. Especially smart: The system is intelligent and adapts to the level of knowledge respective users possess.

Multitasking is not a problem

The QIAstat-Dx Analyzer is ideally suited to multitasking - something very relevant to operations personnel. While the analyses and evaluations are running, the current status of each individual module is simultaneously shown on the display. Animations, color coding and large, clear icons allow the user to easily view the display, and even from a distance. This provides the flexibility to carry out multiple, simultaneous tasks, such as preparing the next round samples whilst still keeping the status of the analysis process in focus so as to facilitate instantaneous reactions when necessary.

Up to Four Modules Can Be Docked via a Smartbridge

The rear side of the Qiagen's QIAstat Analyzer shows the jointless, minimalist embedding of the interfaces.

Mechanical Engineering at its Finest

Minimalist, whilst remaining of high quality, were the parameters adopted in our design approach, and this was applied to the design of devices and surfaces, as well as the selection of appropriate materials.
The individual modules integrate seamlessly with one another. Networked via wireless supply bridges, the system can be expanded step by step and, despite its complexity, it retains the appearance of a single unit.

IMAGO DESIGN