SDL
Designing reliable interfaces for modern laboratories
UX Research • UX/UI Design • Interaction Design • Workflow Optimization • Data Visualization
We partnered with SDL to design a laboratory software experience built for accuracy, speed, and trust. By aligning digital workflows with real-world lab processes, introducing role-based dashboards, and embedding error-preventive UX patterns, we transformed complex, data-heavy operations into clear, reliable interfaces.
The Challenge
SDL is a laboratory software platform supporting technicians, pathologists, and administrators in managing high-volume, data-critical lab operations. The system needed to deliver speed, accuracy, and reliability while handling complex workflows such as sample lifecycle management, test processing, reporting, and compliance. Key challenges included:
- Error-prone workflows in time-sensitive environments
- Dense, data-heavy interfaces leading to cognitive overload
- Limited visibility across sample status, results, and operational metrics
Our Solution
We designed an experience rooted in clarity, precision, and trust, aligning digital workflows with real-world lab operations.
- Workflow-Aligned Interface Design: Interfaces were structured to mirror lab processes—from sample intake to result validation—reducing friction and improving task flow.
- Role-Based Experiences: Distinct interfaces for technicians, pathologists, and administrators ensured faster decision-making and fewer distractions.
- Error-Preventive UX Patterns: Inline validations, status indicators, and contextual alerts were introduced to proactively reduce errors in critical steps.
- Structured Information Architecture: Complex datasets were organized into intuitive hierarchies, enabling quick access to essential information.
- Clear Data Visualization & Reporting: Results, turnaround times, and performance metrics were presented using clean layouts and visual cues for instant comprehension.
Key Features
Each feature was designed around real laboratory workflows—helping teams work faster while reducing the risk of error. Tasks follow a clear, logical progression, allowing users to stay focused without second-guessing their actions. This ensures smoother operations even in high-volume, time-sensitive environments.
Sample Lifecycle Tracking
End-to-end visibility from collection to reporting
Smart Validations & Alerts
Proactive error prevention during data entry and approvals
Operational Analytics
Real-time insights into lab performance and bottlenecks
Compliance-Ready Design
Transparent records for quality and regulatory needs
The Outcome
The redesigned experience delivered measurable improvements across day-to-day lab operations. By reducing friction in critical workflows, teams were able to work faster and with greater confidence. The impact was felt immediately—both in efficiency and in trust in the system.
- Faster task execution in high-volume lab environments
- Reduced operational errors through preventive UX patterns
- Improved clarity and confidence in test result interpretation
Final Thoughts
We design for environments where every interaction matters.
By translating complex laboratory processes into intuitive, reliable interfaces,
we help lab-tech companies build software that teams trust and adopt.
Result: Scalable, error-resistant systems that empower laboratories to deliver accurate results—efficiently and confidently.
Works
