When we started, most of the pharmaceutical information was stored in the system as long texts. The new system was equipped with an editor that could produce structured pharmaceutical information. Data that’s been divided into smaller pieces in this way is not only easier to maintain but also machine-readable, making it possible to set up automatic overdose warnings in medical record systems, for example. Using algorithms then allows the structured data to be turned into human-readable text.
The system also enables the production of new types of pharmaceutical information, thus allowing the business to expand into new areas. Pharmaceutical companies can now add support materials on the use of pharmaceuticals, including instructional videos, to Pharmaca Fennica. They will be delivered to health care professionals in connection with all other related pharmaceutical information.
Agile development and added flexibility
In addition to software development, we carried out UX design and made sure that the interface of the Pharmaca Fennica Drug Information Service was streamlined and that the user experience was functional. Today, we continue to be responsible for maintaining and further developing the cloud-based system. The division of labor has been clear from the start: we take care of the technical development, while the Pharmaceutical Information Centre provides the specifications and the valuable pharmaceutical perspective and carries out user testing. Our mutual trust makes the work run smoothly.
Agile development methods have provided us with a set of working methods. Work on the Pharmaca Fennica Drug Information Service is carried out in flexible two-week sprints, leaving room for urgent tasks and changes. For example, production updates are done as planned when the time is right.
Reaching the users better with a mobile app
The pharmaceutical information can also be read on a mobile app, which we designed and provided the UI design for. The app is available for Android and iOS, with new features being introduced based on user needs. For example, the latest addition included information on availability problems and alternative medicines available. The app increases the availability of up-to-date pharmaceutical information not only for health care professionals but consumers as well.