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, llckevin@type1techventures.comhttp://type1techventures.com