Collaborative design of an online platform for unfolding case studies.

Technology is incorporated into all aspects of nursing education. This article explores the interdisciplinary process of developing a novel software platform called the Nursing Innovation Lab (NIL). The NIL was created using an adapted agile software design allowing conceptualization to implementation in less than twelve months. The NIL was custom coded instead of using off-the-shelf software to ensure all feature specifications were met. The system will host dynamic simulation-based learning experiences in an online environment that utilize unfolding case studies to actively engage participants. A discussion of the project goals is followed by descriptions of each step used in the conceptual design of the project and the software development process. The paper breaks down the project into functional steps to help readers design their own projects. Functional testing and pilot testing results provide guidance for software modification to meet the needs of nursing students. The NIL will provide a robust adaptable platform to engage students in course content and support nursing student success.