Health Platform Application

For our group project, we developed a web application specifically designed to enhance the management of medicine and goods in hospitals. This application was tailored for the hypothetical country of Whotopia, which faces significant challenges such as disease outbreaks and a shortage of essential medications.

Using the DHIS2 software platform, one of the world's largest Health Management Information Systems, we created a solution that met the platform's functional and design requirements. Our design was informed by real-world use cases from DHIS2 users globally, ensuring that our solution is grounded in practical experience and proven needs.

Context

User problems

• Inefficient inventory management due to reliance on outdated paper-based systems.

• Difficulty in tracking and dispensing medicines and goods, leading to delays and errors.

• Lack of a digital solution prevents effective monitoring of inventory levels.

• Inability to address urgent healthcare needs due to poor real-time inventory visibility.

• Varied digital literacy levels among store managers

• Limited adoption of technology due to the technological divide among store managers.

Our web application addresses these challenges by transitioning from a manual, paper-based inventory system to a comprehensive digital platform. The application is designed to improve inventory management by providing real-time tracking of medicines and goods, facilitating more efficient dispensing processes.

To support users, especially those who are new to the system, we included a sandbox mode. This feature allows users to test and experience the main workflows of the application in a more risk-free environment. The sandbox mode also offers additional tips and guidance to help users understand how to navigate and utilize the application more effectively.

The Solution

THE PROCESS

The project lasted about 6 weeks, and to navigate the challenging timeframe, we adopted an agile methodology, working in iterations. We began with the design phase, followed by development and testing, continuously refining our work through each iteration. We used Trello for task management and team communication, allowing us to efficiently divide responsibilities and track progress throughout the development process.

How we worked

Design decisions

A key priority for our group was to ensure a smooth transition from the paper-based system to a digital one. For design decisions, we utilized the DHIS2 Design System library to align with DHIS2's visual style and framework. By adhering to the prescribed colors and fonts from the style guide, we aimed to maintain a consistent and cohesive user experience.

Our primary focus was on feedback, constraints, consistency, and affordance to ensure a positive user experience on the site. We implemented various feedback mechanisms to provide clear information about missing inputs, order status, action practicability and stock predictions and habits.

We started by defining the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) based on the given case. In the project's early stages, we explored different potential solutions through sketching and discussed the features to include in our application. After agreeing on the initial designs, we moved on to develop high-fidelity prototypes using Figma.

For this project, usability testing was crucial even though we didn't have direct access to end users. Instead, we consulted a group of teachers who were familiar with the platform and the tasks of stock managers. We regarded this as expert testing, and their feedback provided valuable insights into how well our design met user needs and highlighted any potential issues we might have missed. This testing helped us refine our design, ensuring it was intuitive and effective, ultimately enhancing the overall user experience.

User Testing

Prototyping

DESIGN

DESIGN

DESIGN

Stock level monitoring

THE RESULTS

Final Takeaways

This project was a great learning experience, providing valuable experience in managing multiple aspects of a larger project and transforming a design concept into a fully functional web application. We had to work within DHIS2's framework and guidelines, which meant following a specific set of rules that were new to us. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on modularizing our code. Throughout the process, I gained insight into working within an agile team and learned a great deal about taking a concept from idea to finished product.

What Did I Learn from This Project?​