NeoPrep™ Library card
Eliminating expensive user errors.
Neoprep reduces the DNA sample preparation (tagging) from 40 hours to 4 hours. However the cartridge interaction resulted in numerous costly user errors.
Reagents and samples are time intensive to prepare and can easily cost a few thousands of dollars. It was critical to eliminate any user errors.
I created a solution that reduced user errors from 38% to < 3% and the interaction time from 37 mins to 16 mins. I led the effort by aligning with stakeholders, tested, and created low cost solutions and oversaw the execution to production.
The challenge
Visually overwhelming
Initially Illumina was going to sell the cartridge without any sort of guide. The cartridge itself is confusing. It did not show any information on where what and when to put in reagents and samples.
Cost effective solution
The solution had to be cost effective and short lead times. Any future chemistry and cartridge changes will need to have a quick turnaround for any modifcations.
Long interaction time
Since the reagents were temperature sensitive, long interaction times increases degradation. Initial studies showed average users took 37 mins to complete filling the cartridge.
The approach
Covering the distraction
Covering the cartridge, allowed for two things.
Hide the visual complexity and cognitive overload.
The cover can be used to add pertinent information,
Cardboard = economical
Because the chemistry and cartridge design could change often, coated cardboard was selected for the final solution. If sudden changes were needed, the turnaround time for a new design would be 2-3 weeks and the unit costs were ~ $3 vs $8.
Inspiration
Inspiration came from subway maps. There were 2 parts to guiding the users. One, I proposed color coded wells, where user can easily identify which reagents to place, reducing confusion and errors. Second, I created a step by step animation on the instrument for novice users can refer.
Final design
User transfers reagents to cartridge.
