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Cool Mobile Apps
Kevin L McMahontype 1 technology ventures, llcdiabetes technology consulting
The Problem● Lots of numbers in diabetes
● Lots of actions to do
● 'Highs' and 'Lows' are somehow your fault
● I just want to be 'NORMAL'
● One missed meal bolus per week = + 0.5 A1c
● “If you would just log your data into your phone...”
Myths● Teens want to use mobile apps
● Logging your data improves blood sugar control
● Monthly review of BG patterns improves control
● Device alarms & reminders are proven effective
The Solution● Focus on your actions
● Actions are under your control; Blood sugar #s are not
● Need a little help remembering those important to do's?
– You
– Your child
– Your child's school caregiver
– Your child's friend with T1D
Texting!
Avoid the Obvious● Mobile apps are rarely used for long● Basic text messaging is THE KING of mobile apps● Never state the obvious!!!
Leverage Curiosity● Calendar event reminders: Gmail (free), limitations● Easy to use text messaging platforms (penny/text)● One example:
Leverage Curiosity
GlucoPALS● Designed with a 16yr old boy w T1D
about 10 years ago
● Scenario: Friends from diabetes camp
● More interested in his friend's healththan his own (human nature)
● Andrew & Ethan agree to beGlucoPALS
● Text messaging system instigatesconversational support messages
● Andrew receives noon message -“Ethan wants your #”
Andrew
Ethan
Basics Design Tips● The tool that gets used is the best tool● Texting is #1 for most people (intimate communication)● Never state the obvious!!!● Make them curious enough to open the message● Never be predictable – every message 'Could' be unique● Mix in a smart diabetes tip every once in a while● Respect the Give vs. Get ratio● Push a button; Get a banana● Text reply trumps 'Send me a message'● Make it fun● Reward curiosity – random prizes● Don't nag!!!
Conclusion
General Purpose Technology is No Substitute for
!!! Frequent !!! Person-to-Person
Communication & Review
Thank U!
Kevin L McMahondiabetes technology inventorresearch investigator / industry consultant
type 1 technology ventures, [email protected]://type1techventures.com
