Send in the Squad-Podsquad! Using Design Thinking as a Framework to Develop a Public Health Promotion Programme

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Promotion
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Innovative public health strategies are crucial for promoting healthy behaviors in children and families.
• Existing health promotion programs often lack engagement and sustainability for young audiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an interactive online public health promotion program for children aged 5-12 and their families using design thinking.
• To enable sustainable health-promoting behavior change through a co-designed digital platform.

Main Methods:

• An iterative design thinking framework, informed by behavior change theory, was employed.
• Workshops, focus groups, surveys, interviews, and prototype testing engaged over 300 children, families, and stakeholders.
• External stakeholders provided input via advisory groups and expert panels.

Main Results:

• The co-design process identified key program elements, including delivery mode, features, and content for the Podsquad App.
• Over 300 children and families actively shaped the app's visual identity, narrative, gameplay, and messaging.
• Programme enablers and challenges were identified and addressed during development.

Conclusions:

• The iterative co-design approach successfully integrated user and expert input, resulting in an app meeting user needs for improved healthy eating, physical activity, and sleep habits.
• The Podsquad App development highlights the importance of understanding co-design processes for public health interventions.
• Further research is recommended for feasibility testing, outcome measurement, and systems integration.