Summary
We partnered with Anthony Nolan to design, build, and launch AN Connect – a patient-centric communication and case management portal transforming how the charity collaborates with its network of Transplant Centres across the UK. The platform supports Anthony Nolan’s mission to save lives through stem cells.
Background
Founded in 1974 by Shirley Nolan, the charity was born from a personal tragedy – when no stem cell donor could be found for her son, Anthony. In response, she set out to create the world’s first stem cell register, laying the foundation for what would become a pioneering force in the fight against blood cancer.
Today, Anthony Nolan operates on a global scale, facilitating transplants, advancing research into blood disorders, supporting the cell and gene therapy industry, and managing one of the most sophisticated HLA typing labs in the world.
Always looking to innovate, the organisation sought to modernise and digitise how it worked with its network of UK Transplant Centres, particularly within the area of Donor Transplantation operations. This vision led to the creation of AN Connect.
Our Approach
Working closely with senior leaders across the charity, our principal consultant led the design and development of a modern, scalable portal that reflects the needs of clinicians, administrators, and Anthony Nolan’s internal teams alike.
The work began with in-depth research to uncover user pain points and define the functionality that would deliver the most value. We then facilitated collaborative workshops to shape a clear product vision and roadmap, aligning internal and external stakeholders around shared goals.
We established a prioritised product backlog and oversaw its delivery through a distributed agile technology team, ensuring regular feedback cycles and continuous improvement throughout the build.
Outcome
AN Connect officially launched at the end of 2023 and met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from Transplant Centre users. It has helped simplify communication, increase transparency across case management, and ensure that vital patient and donor information is easier to access and act upon.
By putting patients at the centre and enabling more seamless collaboration between Anthony Nolan and clinical partners, the portal is already making a difference in how lifesaving decisions are made and actioned.
“Thank you for all the hard work you put in and the progress you helped Anthony Nolan achieve with AN Connect.”
Paul Airey – Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) at Anthony Nolan
“I wanted to let you know how much I have appreciated you and the talent and passion you brought to AN Connect.”
Ann O’Leary – Director of Donor and Transplantation Services at Anthony Nolan
