Design and Development of the EMPOWER-SUSTAIN Prototype Web- Based Self-Management Mobile Apps: A Novel Empowerment Tool for Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Given the proliferation of mobile phone users with accessibility to the internet, web-enabled mobile-based self-management intervention system is a potential solution to improve self-management behaviour among patients especially in the younger age groups.

Objective: This study aimed to design and develop the EMPOWER-SUSTAIN prototype webbased self-management mobile apps for patients with Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), to empower them with knowledge and skills to take charge of their health.

Methods: Iterative Model was chosen as the software development model for this study. Content from the newly revised EMPOWER-SUSTAIN Global Cardiovascular Risks Self- Management Booklet© was evaluated for its suitability to be included in the prototype. A storyboard was designed to create the flow of prototype usage by Primary Care Physicians and patients during follow-up clinic and at home. In the pre-alpha stage, wireframe was designed to describe and visualize the user interface in static draft layouts based on the content and structure of information. Based on the wireframe, a mock prototype was designed to demonstrate the graphic representations of the content and function. Using the iterative model of the software development life cycle (SDLC), a working prototype was developed based on the mock prototype.

Results: High-fidelity mock-up static graphic diagrams demonstrating the content and function divided into eight sections were designed. The sections included My Profile, My Cardiovascular Risks, My Treatment Targets, My Check-Up, My Weight Management, My Smoking Habit, My Self-Management and My Medication. Based on the graphic diagrams, a working prototype of the EMPOWER-SUSTAIN web-based self-management mobile apps were developed using the iterative model of the SDLC.

Conclusion: The EMPOWER-SUSTAIN prototype web-based self-management was developed using a robust software development method. It is currently undergoing the alpha (utility) testing by medical experts and beta (usability) testing by patients with MetS.

International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Supplementary Issue: 2019 Page: 48