Designing Software for Genomics Medicine Service Leaders to Engage Stakeholders.

Area of Science:

• Genomic Medicine
• Health Informatics
• Human-Centered Design

Background:

• Stakeholder engagement is vital for the success of new genomic medicine services and genetic test offerings.
• Genomic services encompass ordering, analysis, interpretation, and counseling based on patient genetic information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design software for genomic medicine service leaders to effectively engage stakeholders.
• Focus on identifying and engaging partners to champion new genetic test offerings.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a human-centered design (HCD) approach with a modified design sprint methodology.
• Conducted participatory design sessions and semi-structured interviews with experts.
• Developed a low-fidelity prototype for early engagement and tested it with service leaders.

Main Results:

• Analyzed interviews with seven genomic medicine service leaders.
• Identified three key design considerations: partner identification, stakeholder education, and feedback utilization.
• Top-ranked sub-themes included adding information, general approval, and functionality changes.

Conclusions:

• Genomic medicine service leaders approved the software design for facilitating stakeholder review and endorsement of new genetic tests.
• An evaluation strategy was demonstrated, drawing on successful programs to guide future software improvements.