Complex Diagnostics, Made Simple

Project overview
As antibiotic resistance continues to grow globally, MeMed has developed a breakthrough solution to this critical challenge. Their FDA-cleared host-immune response assay, MeMed BV®, distinguishes between bacterial and viral infections in just 15 minutes. Running on the compact MeMed Key® immunoassay platform, it removes the need for extensive lab equipment - bringing advanced diagnostics directly to the point of care.
Cognit had the privilege of collaborating with MeMed from the early proof-of-concept stage, and later partnering again to deliver a comprehensive user experience solution for their mature, FDA-approved product. The goal was clear: to design an intuitive, foolproof interface that empowers a wide range of healthcare providers - not just lab technicians - and makes this powerful technology truly accessible.

Project highlights
Designing the user interface for the MeMed Key® meant balancing a bold visual language with real-world usability. The interface needed to be clean and accessible for users with varying levels of expertise, while still supporting advanced functions like calibration. Every element - from navigation to the diagnostic readout - was designed to create a seamless, intuitive experience.
Through iterative design and close attention to user needs, we created an interface that presents complex diagnostic information in a clear, immediately actionable way - delivering clarity and confidence at a glance.
Our work began with in-depth contextual research, including interviews with lab managers, emergency department staff, and healthcare providers. This helped us understand workflows and constraints across different clinical settings. These insights informed an iterative design process grounded in real-world use - combining task analysis, workflow simplification, and on going validation.
Usability testing was integrated throughout, allowing us to refine the design at every stage and ensure it proved practical and effective in high-pressure environments.
We also developed training materials and user guides to support adoption across diverse users. From quick-start guides to comprehensive manuals, everything was designed to help clinicians get up to speed quickly and use the system with confidence.
The MeMed Key® stands as a strong example of what’s possible when scientific innovation is paired with human-centered design. It enables healthcare providers to make fast, accurate decisions - supporting better patient outcomes while helping address the global challenge of antibiotic resistance.
