As the next step in developing an innovative Digital Health Application for Type 2 Diabetes prevention and management, benchmarking takes place. This phase systematically compares existing apps to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities, revealing how current solutions address the needs of both patients and healthcare professionals. Building on prior user-centred research and insights into the Type 2 Diabetes community, benchmarking evaluates how well existing applications integrate behavioural, emotional, and contextual dimensions, guiding the design of a solution that bridges patients and healthcare professionals needs while promoting preventive health behaviour and effective therapy management. One key method was employed:
Competitors-Complementors Map
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Identity | A triadic relationship
People experience illness differently, even under identical conditions. This variation stems from one's Sense of Coherence: the belief that the world is understandable, manageable, and meaningful. In effective and sustainable design, all three dimensions must be addressed equally and personally. When done effectively, they can strongly motivate users to adopt healthier behaviours. Content should be clear and accessible, interactions simple and effortless for both patients and healthcare professionals. The app should support with discretion, while being sensitive to users emotional states.
Sense of Coherence:
Comprehensibility
Manageability
Comprehensibility
Visual Language | Tailored and interconnected
The different needs of both target groups call for tailored communication and data representation. While patients benefit from simplified insights that reduce anxiety and support everyday ease, clinicians require detailed documentation and comprehensive data to guide decisions. To bridge these perspectives, the visual language must balance clarity with depth, making data approachable for patients, yet precise for professionals. Beyond personalisation, seamless collaboration is essential. Streamlined information exchange across every touchpoint ensures efficient, equitable communication and alignment within the broader healthcare ecosystem.
Dimension for Comparison
Approach | Integrated without friction
When users feel comfortable, understood, and connected, a Digital Health Application is more likely to become part of their daily routine. The smoother the integration into everyday habits, the higher the chance of sustaining both use and commitment.
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