Castor
Data entry redesign
Data entry is one of the main features of a CDMS. This contains entering field values, but also adding a ‘repeating data’ instance to a visit. A repeating data instance could be data related to an adverse event, medication, or an unscheduled visit. Basically anything that can not (yet) be defined in the study protocol. In the old Ext JS framework, there was a poor user experience for navigating between study participants, and between visits while viewing a participant record. A lot of features were hidden in modals, and important information wasn’t always readily available. Study progress and status weren’t clearly visible. Furthermore data entry (field value) components looked outdated and didn’t perform well on accessibility. This was very important, because the same components were also used on the participant facing application.
Old data entry in CDMS.
Role and process
I was the main senior UX designer for this project, but worked with many people on gathering insights, among which Customer Insights, Product Owners, and Engineers. Designs were validated with internal subject matter experts, and with customers in a later stage. Through iterating, testing, and discussing, we came to the final result.
Redesigned data entry.
Solution
As part of the data entry (field value) component updates to React, I joined our internal design system team to better keep an eye on accessibility and further develop new features. Fields would have a clearer indication of their status (e.g. Completed, Required, Marked as missing). Field related events, such as raised queries or changes to its value, would be shown in a history timeline to better show how they are connected.
The study navigation has been updated to show a clear hierarchy between visits, forms, and repeating data instances. The status and progress of a visit is clearly visualized, and overall user experience has been improved by relocating certain actions.
Redesigned data entry showing field details in a slide out on the right.
Information that would only be available from the participant data listing, has moved to the left navigation panel; the user is now able to directly access and action on randomization data, participant status, and other pieces of valuable information. Also browsing through participants without having to revisit the data listing is now possible.
Additionally more focus was put in the responsiveness of the components and page layout. Field entry components now work on smaller resolution devices as well, making it a huge improvement for the accessibility of surveys sent to study participants.
Design of participant facing surveys, utilizing the same data entry components.
The design of the data entry components has taken responsiveness in consideration.
Reception
The updated data entry designs have been greatly appreciated by customers and colleagues alike. Not only do the new components look more like they are from this century, their improved accessibility has been a game changer for many customers who have this aspect high on their agenda.
Let’s connect!
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