Asthma New Zealand CASE STUDY: Asthma New Zealand - A breath of fresh air

Asthma New Zealand (ANZ) asked Company-X to turn its e-learning platform prototype for youth into a fully functional e-learning course. Company-X’s software and data and analytics expertise enabled ANZ to measure and enhance their offering on the path to a 50% reduction in hospital-related incidents by 2029.

Asthma New Zealand (ANZ) has established itself as one of New Zealand’s leading non-profit organizations dedicated to improving the health of New Zealanders with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Since 1965, it has led the charge in education, aiming for a 50% reduction in hospital-related incidents by 2029. This mission is pursued through strategic partnerships, spreading awareness, and empowering the community.

Up until 2020, Asthma New Zealand was delivering an education model rooted in now traditional, face-to-face interaction programmes across 82 national schools with four interactions per class. 2020 forced a change in that model. Due to a global pandemic, in-person interactions would become restricted to a device in the confines of one’s own home with two meters of social distancing separating each of their attentive “students”.

Utilizing Unity 3D’s WebGL technology, ANZ contracted Company-X to develop a robust, interactive web application that would serve as a comprehensive resource for educators, healthcare professionals, and families covering crucial topics like respiratory health, the harmful effects of smoking, emergency asthma response techniques, and tips for healthier homes.

As of December 2023, O2 Max now has gamified four fun and interactive learning modules that can be done consecutively or as stand-alone learning lessons. The modules can be played on its own as an individual or be used as a resource after hours or in class.

“Digital transformation is an intimidating space for somebody like me to walk into. When that boat starts to rock and roll, you do not want to be hanging over the side with somebody you don't like. Street cred's one thing, but it’s worthless if I don’t trust those I’m working and feel comfortable to say I do not understand stuff.”

Katheren Leitner
Strategic Advisor
Asthma New Zealand