Custom PDF Report Generator for Genetic Testing - Streamlining Laboratory Reporting

Introduction
In the field of genetic testing, providing clear and personalized results to customers is crucial. We developed a custom PDF report generator specifically designed for laboratory assistants, allowing them to easily create comprehensive and branded reports for genetic testing results. The software enabled users to input a sample ID, retrieve DNA analysis results from an internal company database, and generate personalized reports that provided insights into health-related traits, such as the likelihood of conditions like lactose intolerance, based on saliva sample analysis.

The Challenge
One of the significant challenges in developing the PDF generator was creating a solution that could effectively balance both design consistency and technical constraints. The reports needed to adhere strictly to the company's branding, requiring us to overcome difficulties in handling headers, footers, page layouts, and a custom front page. Utilizing Electron's print-to-PDF functionality presented its own unique set of challenges, as we needed to ensure that the resulting documents were visually appealing and easy to understand for customers.

Building the Solution
The software was built using Electron, allowing us to develop a cross-platform desktop application that could easily integrate with the company's existing infrastructure. The interface was designed to be simple and intuitive for laboratory assistants, enabling them to input a sample ID, retrieve relevant genetic analysis data, and quickly generate PDF reports. The solution emphasized speed and automation, streamlining the reporting process by reducing manual effort and ensuring consistency in the reports generated.

Outcome
The custom PDF report generator successfully simplified the workflow for laboratory assistants, allowing them to focus more on analysis rather than formatting reports. Although the software was used internally, the PDF reports were sent directly to customers, providing them with clear, professional results from their genetic tests. The branded reports offered a user-friendly presentation of genetic data, making complex information more accessible to customers.

Conclusion
The development of the custom PDF report generator for genetic testing demonstrated the value of automating repetitive tasks and providing an intuitive interface for non-technical users. By focusing on speed, automation, and design consistency, we were able to create a solution that enhanced the efficiency of laboratory reporting and improved the overall customer experience. The project highlights how thoughtful software development can bridge the gap between complex scientific data and customer understanding.

Technologies Used

• Electron
• Internal company database integration
• Print-to-PDF functionality

Key Takeaway
Simplifying complex workflows through automation and thoughtful design can significantly enhance both user and customer experiences. Our custom PDF report generator transformed the reporting process for genetic testing, delivering a branded, user-friendly output that made a real difference for both lab assistants and customers.