Understanding the user experience of a mobile produce market intervention toolkit

Veggie Van (VV) is an evidenced-based intervention for improving diet through a mobile market (MM) and is disseminated through an online toolkit. Understanding the user experience of the VV toolkit is crucial to inform its refinement and ensure future implementation success and positive public health impact.

We conducted semi-structured interviews to understand the VV toolkit user experience including their familiarity and utilization of the toolkit, experience navigating, feedback on specific content, comprehension of the evidence base, and feedback on training and technical assistance options. Interviews were deductively analyzed using Atlas.ti 22.0 qualitative software.

Interviews were conducted via web conference over the spring and summer of 2022.

Interviews were conducted with 16 key informants (KIs) from established MM organizations and frequent toolkit users.

The majority of KIs were previously familiar with the VV toolkit and had used it in their work or referred others to the toolkit. The toolkit was perceived to be thorough and well-done, but more appropriate for an organization earlier in the process of starting an MM, despite the toolkit being intended for organizations of all experience levels. KIs cited that the toolkit facilitated planning for markets and bolstered their legitimacy in conversations with stakeholders. Most could not accurately define the core components of the VV model and how it differed from other models; it was also unclear to what degree practitioners are implementing its practices.

This evaluation provided valuable feedback on the perceptions and utility of our online toolkit as well as comprehension of the evidence base. Clarifying the VV model components and enhancing the appeal of the toolkit to more established practitioners will ensure proper knowledge translation and increase the reach of the intervention.