helpLine B.V. invests substantially in research and development. Our development focuses mainly on the primary components of Careware, such as its ergonomics and ’user-interface design’ of the user screens. An intuitive, easy-to-use system, created with an eye for detail and design, leads to fewer questions during use and, consequently, to less management burden. We also continually invest in technical development and optimization. Careware is based on state-of-the-art Internet and database technology. 

Moreover, helpLine invests in new applications and developments that might not come in useful 'today' but 'tomorrow'. In this respect, helpLine is supported by the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research TNO, through the Small Business Innovation Research programme. The following is a list of examples: 

1. Voice response
Using the Vox service, employees can phone the planning system. The current planning is then read out by a computer in very high quality sound. Even daily messages and messages for each appointment can be read out. Vox can also serve as an extra backup when employees temporarily do not have access to their PDA or PC. Using speech or the telephone keys, Vox can even be used to log registrations!

2. Integration of Navigation
Upon request, Careware on a PDA can be linked to a navigation system, e.g. TomTom. Select an appointment, click on the TomTom icon and the navigation will start!

3. GPS track & trace
With GPS track & trace, the position of the PDA and so that of the user can be accurately pinpointed and shown on a map, giving planners better insight into where staff members are, which allows them to adjust the planning accordingly. 

4. Automated planning system for the healthcare industry 
helpLine firmly believes that ambulatory healthcare requires a specific automated planning system that better takes into account the requirements and wishes of clients and employees. For example, the automated system of helpLine can be used to optimize individual routes. The system is very easy to use. Anyone who is familiar with Google Maps can also use the automated system of helpLine. 

5. Unique healthcare provider / eID card integration
Initiated by the laboratory world, employees can identify themselves using a unique healthcare provider identification card to gain access to the application, either from a PC or from a PDA. For example, visits can be registered using eID (electronic ID), which is already widely available in Belgium. 

We are happy to tell you more about our innovations.