Creating an Interactive Aid to Mediate Obesity Diagnoses and Management

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to design an application using iterative design and usability testing to convey nutrition, exercise, and obesity information to a patient with obesity. The study consisted of three phases: the research phase (Pre-phase), prototype phase (Phase 1), and application phase (Phase 2). In the pre-phase, group discussions were held with four experts, where they discussed the desired functionality of the proposed application. Their suggestions were incorporated into a paper prototype that was developed for iterative design testing in Phase 1. Experts first answered questions about their patients and then were given tasks to complete using the prototype. In Phase 2, the application was developed in the Unity 2D gaming engine. User feedback from Phase 1 testing was considered for Phase 2 design and functionality choices. Test subjects were given either the mobile application or a handout with the identical written content. All subjects were given a pre-test, including questions about comfort level with their health care provider and knowledge of exercise and nutrition, before they were given either the application or the handout. A post-test was given after subjects had interacted with their materials for one week. Qualitative data from prototyping and iterative design testing is a valuable tool for improving future health and wellness applications.