Applying a User Centred Design Approach to Optimise a Workplace Initiative for Wide-Scale Implementation

Area of Science:

• Health Promotion
• Behavioral Science
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Translating research interventions into practice requires adaptation for applied settings.
• User-centered design (UCD) is effective for iterative adaptations, especially in peer-led initiatives.
• Optimizing interventions enhances their usability and scalability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and reflect on the UCD approach used to optimize the BeUpstanding workplace health program.
• To ensure the BeUpstanding program is suitable for wide-scale implementation and evaluation.
• To provide guidance for adapting behavior change research into practice using UCD and the RE-AIM framework.

Main Methods:

• Applied UCD methodologies including discovery interviews, persona mapping, workshops, surveys, and prototyping.
• Aligned optimization efforts with the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance) framework.
• Involved a multidisciplinary core team, policy partners, practice partners, and end-users throughout the process.

Main Results:

• Iterative development and testing enhanced the BeUpstanding program across all RE-AIM dimensions.
• UCD methodologies facilitated program optimization for usability and scalability.
• The process demonstrated successful adaptation of a peer-led intervention for broad implementation.

Conclusions:

• UCD is a valuable methodology for optimizing health interventions for implementation.
• The RE-AIM framework provides a robust structure for guiding intervention adaptation.
• This process offers a model for translating research into scalable, real-world health programs.