H.E.L
Leading across technology and product to future proof cell and gene therapy equipment
H.E.L has produced software-controlled laboratory hardware for over 30 years, with bioreactors, calorimeters and battery testing kit their particular specialities.
We designed and developed a single, modular platform that could support every current & future product line: labCONSOL.
Streamlining the H.E.L software
Codebases had become complicated, product configuration a costly time-sink, and each UI outdated and confusing.
Every piece of equipment had its own software package – often with each customer receiving a different version – despite significant overlap in their functionality and means of control.
H.E.L needed to streamline their software and create a future-proof platform so that they could spend more time focusing on the science at the heart of the business.
A forward thinking interface
We audited their existing interfaces, connected with their customers to understand their needs, frustrations and behaviours, and devised new, improved models of interaction.
Our developers created a range of software libraries that could be used across future projects at H.E.L including a purpose-built graphing library and a UI component kit. We also created a piece of middleware to enable this new front-end software to connect to and control legacy equipment.
As part of this full-scale overhaul, we introduced an agile software development process and collaborated with H.E.L’s engineering team to drive efficiencies within their existing approach to development.
Designed to be highly flexible and completely customisable, the interface can be used for years to come, providing the great flexibility required for H.E.L hardware.
This single, standardised platform also means that H.E.L have far fewer pieces of software to maintain.
The transition from legacy software and increasingly-obscure programming languages has widened their access to exciting new technologies and capable developer teams.
Their customers find the interface easier and more intuitive to use, allowing them to focus more on their scientific work and less on technical troubleshooting.
Easier access to equipment for scientists
Thanks to our advancement of their control architecture, H.E.L can now also offer remote control of their systems – scientists can now gain easier access to equipment in cold rooms or other difficult environments.