For medical device manufacturers, it’s not enough that they provide a device that works. With an increased number of devices that are used by patients only—outside the hospital or doctor’s office—that device’s GUI must be straightforward and simple, without requiring extensive user training. Software quality and a clear focus on usability are paramount.

When it comes to software development, medical device developers have it harder than developers of any other consumer device. While consumer devices can update their software functionality and even their GUI on the fly, sometimes without users even knowing it, government regulations require that medical devices have a longer route toward creating a touch screen user interface.