Mobilising Social Support: Insights for the Development of a Web and App Based Intervention for Weight Loss

Introduction: Previous research shows that setting goals, planning, selfmonitoring and social support are key to behavior change. We are developing and testing the feasibility of a web and app based intervention for weight loss incorporating these elements. The first stage involved codesign with a panel of users. This paper will describe insights from focus groups and user testing which have informed the development of the app and website. Methods: Ten obese adults were recruited to three focus groups. Thirty others were recruited and one-to-one interviews were conducted with them. Think aloud methods were also used to assess acceptability, feasibility and usability. Users in both the focus group and interviews were asked about design issues, barriers to use and key features of the app/ website. Data were analyzed using thematic analytic approaches. Results: Users preferred a simple uncluttered design. They wanted to create their own goals but also felt having a ‘template’ was important to guide SMART goal setting. Participants preferred weekly to daily monitoring of weight. They also discussed the importance of ‘personalization’. Participants highlighted the importance of gamification and an element of competition for engagement. They also felt rewards for progress were important. Strategies identified for engaging helpers included: feedback/rewards; options for quick interaction e.g. thumbs-up; and an SOS button to request input from helpers in moments of potential relapse. Conclusions: This detailed user-centered development process and feasibility testing has led to an intervention, designed and tested by users, which will have the potential to change weight related behaviors