Digital Solutions Research Articles

Building the Lands’ End digital asset management content hub

Founded in 1963, Lands’ End is a digital retailer of clothing and home products available through online marketplaces and retail stores. In 2019, the company transitioned to a new enterprise digital asset management solution for its in-progress and final assets. This paper summarises how the new system has expanded into a content hub for a wide variety of digital assets, including images, video, catalogue pages, e-mails and integrations with enterprise systems, and describes the challenges, benefits and opportunities.

170 Collective creativity; promoting physical activity. Outlining a Co-design process for the development of Digital Physical Activity promotion initiatives for Autistic Adults

Abstract Purpose Autistic students at higher education institutions in Ireland have reported feelings of isolation, depression, and disengagement, all of which contribute to health disparities in this population. It is critical to address these issues, given the recent significant increase in the number of Autistic youths enrolling in higher education. To inform the development of acceptable and effective physical activity promotion programmes, we utilized a co-design process with the aim of co-creating a digital health intervention to promote physical activity among Autistic university students. Methods A co-design process [Design Thinking] was utilized for the development of the intervention. First, to empathize with participants, semi-structured interviews were held with Autistic adults. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed via reflexive thematic analysis. Actionable intervention targets were defined, and potential solutions ideated. The findings from the interviews informed the exploration and refinement of intervention ideas during co-design workshops. Workshops featured a multidisciplinary development team, including Autistic adults and experts in technology, physical activity promotion, and digital health. Results Three central themes were developed during analysis of the interview data: (1) “Psychological Factors” describing participants’ experiences and needs relating to routines, motivation, and self-consciousness/anxiety; (2), “E-Health Ideas and Needs” encapsulated the participants’ preferences and suggestions for digital health intervention components; and (3) “Supportive Spaces” encompassing the participants’ preferences relating to physical and social environments for physical activity. Individual interviews findings informed the ideation of digital health solutions for refinement in co-design workshops; these included interventions focusing on enhancing e-communication about physical activity opportunities on campus, the use of AI Chatbots for physical activity promotion; and the use of online social support groups. Conclusions Findings suggest Autistic adults face a variety of interrelated barriers to physical activity. The co-design process enabled the collective design of digital health interventions with the potential to overcome these barriers and support Autistic students to enjoy and more active, engaged University experience. Support/Funding Source Erasmus+ Sport grant

The Role of Digital Health in Managing Chronic Pain

Chronic pain, which affects almost a billion people worldwide, is a major health concern that places a large cost strain on healthcare systems. Traditional pain management strategies frequently fall short, demanding novel alternatives. Telemedicine, mobile health applications, and remote monitoring tools are all examples of digital health technologies that show promise for chronic pain management. This study examines the present issues in chronic pain treatment, the importance of digital health treatments, and the efficacy of evidence-based methods including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and machine learning for personalised care. Patients suffering from chronic pain now have new hope thanks to digital health solutions that allow for patient self-management, real-time monitoring, and enhanced access to care. Through evaluating clinical trials and research findings, this review sheds light on the future potential and opportunities for incorporating digital health technologies into chronic pain care. Keywords: Chronic Pain, Digital Health, Telemedicine, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Remote Monitoring.

Low/no-code and traditional code integration in digital banking

This paper seeks to combine the merits of low/no-code programming (LNCP) with traditional programming (TP) systems for increased agility in digital banking software development. While it is easy to fall prey to shiny object syndrome in today’s dynamic banking technology landscape, it is not easy to select the right technology to suit the current and future needs of the financial industry. Instead, LNCP makes it possible to lower the technical entry barriers to technology development. Integrating TP with LNCP, when needed, compensates for the shortcomings related to LNCP and provides digital banks with a more comprehensive software development approach. The adoption of this approach improves time-to-market of new innovative financial solutions. There has been little progress in this direction, academically or in practice. This paper includes an empirical study, interviews with banking professionals, on the merits of LNCP and TP, as well as an experimental project implementation that integrates LNCP and TP in the development of a retail Internet banking application. In the context of digital banking solution development, the result of the experiment reveals the merits of LNCP/TP hybrid systems in terms of agility, scalability, change management and cost-effectiveness.

How Do We Better Serve Excluded Populations When Delivering Digital Health Technology? Inclusion Evaluation of a Digital Musculoskeletal Self-Management Solution.

Digital self-management platforms have been proposed as a solution to better support people manage their musculoskeletal (MSK) condition. However, research studies often explicitly exclude people who can't access internet connected devices. An important consideration is that digital exclusion (for people without access to an internet connected device) from these new digital options will worsen already existing inequality and inequity in healthcare. To evaluate the acceptability and potential causes of digital exclusion of the South West London (SWL) MSK self-management app. (1) Explore why some patients are not using the app and any barriers they have. Explore why some clinicians are not prescribing the app. (2) Make recommendations, based on these findings, to improve digital inclusion. An explanatory sequential mixed method service evaluation that consisted of initial questionnaires to identify suitable collaborators, followed by structured interviews of patients and clinicians. Following a comprehensive data analysis, 10 sub-themes were grouped into four main themes: (1) Beliefs: Importance of understanding the role of digital; face to face consultation is still valued and needed. (2) Barriers: Lack of digital literacy; lack of physical examination/contact with a clinician. (3) Enablers: Immediate access to advice and information; perceived better control over health; ease of use; no appointment needed. (4) Solutions: Support and training; greater awareness. As digital health technology develops, strategies must change, requiring deliberate work and investments to improve inclusion. Our findings highlight how digital technology design and delivery can be adapted to address the causes of digital exclusion.

Abstract P316: Beyond the Cuff: Revolutionizing Hypertension Care through Human-Centered Design and Tech-Driven Solutions in an Urban Community Health Center

Community Health Centers serve populations burdened with cardiovascular disease due to social determinants of health, necessitating innovative solutions in resource-limited environments. Wi-Fi/Bluetooth-enabled home blood pressure monitors have emerged as clinical tools for diagnosing, monitoring, and managing hypertension. The real time data enables timely interventions by care teams of patients being monitored. A multifaceted approach beyond clinic settings, supported by digital tools, can help reduce healthcare costs by preventing avoidable emergency room visits. We posited that implementing a self-monitored blood pressure (SMBP) program, supplemented by holistic, human-centered patient coaching and feedback, in a community health center setting would enhance patient engagement, medication adherence, and hypertension control. We designed and piloted a small SMBP program using Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure devices, targeting adult patients with documented uncontrolled blood pressure seen in our health centers in a 6- month window. This was further augmented by a holistic, human-centered individual and group-level coaching session. Patients enrolled in the SMBP program received comprehensive education on hypertension, including medication management and lifestyle changes, as well as data-driven feedback on their blood pressure profiles during virtual group and individual outreach sessions. The program's goals were to increase patient engagement in their care, adherence to interventions, leading to better blood pressure control. Results were significant: 22 of 32 participants graduated, achieving improved blood pressure control with medication and lifestyle changes. Average reductions of 17 mmHg in systolic and 6 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure were noted after being in the program for an average of three months. Among the graduates, 50% required medication intensification, and 60% adopted lifestyle changes, indicating the program's effectiveness. Our pilot affirmed the efficacy of utilizing digital solutions and integrated strategies to improve hypertension control and empower patients to make timely changes with data feedback. The key findings from our pilot led to the expansion of the SMBP program to serve a larger cohort of patients in our clinic. This underscores the critical role of patient engagement, technology integration, and an integrated approach to care in improving hypertension management, particularly in underserved communities.

Pioneering Energy Digitalisation: Revolutionizing Accessibility Initiated by Pertamina Plaju Refinery

Abstract The oldest and less technologically advanced among Pertamina’s refineries, Pertamina Plaju Refinery, faced challenges in maintaining efficiency and competitiveness. However, the introduction of the PROFIT (Plant Performance Operations and Financial Tracking) mobile application transformed the refinery’s operations. With a focus on energy security and real-time data, PROFIT empowered engineers to make informed decisions, enhancing overall performance and productivity. The study employed a descriptive qualitative research design with a case study strategy. Data was collected through interviews and supplemented with secondary sources from the Pertamina library, ensuring data validity. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the development of PROFIT, emphasizing the urgency of digitalization in the oil and gas industry. Additionally, the transition to a younger workforce influenced its creation. PROFIT’s advantages in enhancing employee performance were evident, streamlining processes and increasing job satisfaction. The study highlighted its role as a strategic information system. The transformation of Pertamina Plaju Refinery serves as a pioneer for integrated information systems in the industry, promoting progress and sustainability. Embracing digital solutions can drive advancements and improvements in the Indonesian oil and gas sector, optimizing operations and contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.

Current Insights on Treatment Adherence in Prevalent Dermatological Conditions and Strategies To Optimize Adherence Rates.

Adherence to prescribed medication regimens is crucial for treatment efficacy and patient safety, but it remains a challenge in the medical field, particularly in dermatology, where adherence to prescribed treatments is being intensively evaluated and improved. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of adherence behaviors in dermatological diseases, including fungal skin infections, psoriasis, acne, atopic dermatitis, and chronic urticaria, aiming to update scientific information on adherence patterns and management strategies in these highly prevalent conditions. Furthermore, the importance of a holistic approach that integrates patient-centered and physician-centered strategies to optimize treatment outcomes and enhance adherence in dermatological care is highlighted. The role of technological advancements in promoting adherence is also discussed, with an emphasis on the potential for digital solutions to facilitate medication management. Future perspectives underscore the need for targeted interventions to address the multifaceted barriers to adherence, including treatment complexity, healthcare accessibility, and patient-provider communication. By addressing these challenges, healthcare providers can enhance patient satisfaction, improve therapeutic outcomes, and mitigate the adverse consequences of non-adherence in dermatological practice.

Virtualization of Service Consumer Behavior in Poland – A Post-Pandemic Perspective

ABSTRACT This article explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the virtualization of consumer behaviors in the Polish service sector, emphasizing shifts in service delivery mechanisms. The pandemic acted as a catalyst, accelerating the adoption of virtual solutions across various sectors including tourism, gastronomy, culture, education, and healthcare, as necessitated by social distancing and other restrictive measures. The article first outlines the integration of digital solutions into various service sectors, focusing on the impact of these technologies on consumer behaviors and service delivery. Next, utilizing an online survey conducted in November 2022 with a sample of 1,100 respondents, whose socio-demographic profile corresponds with that of Polish internet users (Ariadna panel), the study examines consumer perceptions and the effectiveness of digital transformations during the pandemic. The findings indicate a high appreciation among Polish consumers for virtual solutions that improved access to and use of services during restrictive periods. However, the continuation of these virtual engagements post-pandemic appears selective, with significant inclination towards solutions in administrative, food delivery, and telemedical services, while long-term engagement in virtual cultural services is less favored. This study underscores the dual role of necessity and technological advancement in reshaping consumer interactions with service sectors, suggesting a sustained yet selective future for virtual service consumption post-pandemic.

A comprehensive analysis of the limitations of the shift to virtual learning in universities and colleges during COVID-19 in developing nations

This literature review aims to discuss the transition to online distance learning during the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic in universities and colleges in underdeveloped nations. The limits and potential possibilities identified by the systematic review methodology were used to guide future practices in online distance learning. The results highlight several drawbacks, including digital inequality, inconsistent internet connectivity, a lack of technology proficiency and preparation among teachers and pupils, and a shortage of digital solutions. The results also show that the majority of students had social and emotional difficulties as a result of their quick and careless switch to online distance learning. It was determined that, even before the COVID-19 epidemic, the majority of the restrictions were caused by a deficiency of digital culture. Further possible areas for research recommended in this paper include the exploration of digital inclusion among marginalized groups in developing countries.

Bridging the mental health gap: The scope, challenges, and future of digital psychiatry in India

The mental health burden in India is increasing at unprecedented rates. The increased demand for mental health care and the undersupply of services has widened the treatment gap. Due to several factors, such as increasing service costs and the circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, India has witnessed an inclination toward using digital mental health solutions to overcome the treatment gap. Drawing from the collective evidence and experience in implementing mental health solutions using digital phenotyping and smartphone app-based care delivery in India, we define the scope, potential, and challenges of implementing synchronous and asynchronous digital mental health solutions that can serve as a template for improving global mental health.

Paving the way to establishing the digital-friendly health and care information model in Kazakhstan

IntroductionKazakhstan has made significant strides in digital health implementation since 2013, transitioning from paper-based systems to wide implementation of digital solutions. However, challenges persist, notably the misalignment between existing data collection requirements and ongoing digital transformations. To address this obstacle, the development of a new digital-friendly requirements for health data collection at provider levels was initiated. Material and methodsA comparative analysis of all existing requirements on health and care data collection set a foundation for further actions. A dedicated technical working group, established by the Ministry of Healthcare, oversaw this process, while several specialized expert groups participated in detailed discussions to ensure alignment with healthcare needs. We took as a basis the legislative act enforcing use of data forms inherited from pre-digital era. Data elements from most used forms were cataloged, checked for consistency, and standardized. ISO 13940 standard guided transformation of rigid paper-based forms into flexible digital-friendly data sets. ResultsAnalysis of the healthcare legislation reveals significant optimization opportunities. We categorized 157 forms into four groups by their content and role and focusing on clinical and administrative records for transformation. Data elements’ analysis led to developing 209 standardized classifications with data values. 83 data sets, encompassing clinical and administrative domains, were developed to substitute 63 (out of 157) forms. Therefore, the foundation for better data and structure interoperability was set. DiscussionThe top-down approach to digital health standardization, combined with open market policies, results in inconsistent data collection practices. Developed data sets align with the goal of developing the national Electronic Health Records system as enabler for interoperability and adds a bottom-up perspective to digital health standardization. This effort addresses the lack of guidance for digital data model development, however additional efforts required to change the current practice and finalize the national legislation transformation into digital-friendly mode.

RENTALIN APPS: Development of a Motorbike Rental Application Using Design Thinking for a Digital Rental Solution

The motorbike rental industry in Indonesia is characterized by significant challenges, including security risks, inefficient operations, and difficulty for customers in finding reliable rental services. This study aims to develop a comprehensive digital solution through the RENTALIN application, which addresses these challenges using a Design Thinking approach. The objective of this research was to create an application that enhances both the operational efficiency for rental owners and the user experience for customers. Data was collected from 13 motorbike rental owners, reported issues such as theft, fraud, and difficulties in tracking motorbikes. Additionally, surveyed customers indicated challenges in finding trustworthy rental services. Based on these findings, the RENTALIN application was designed with features such as GPS-based motorbike tracking, secure data verification systems, and an intuitive user interface. These solutions aim to improve security, expand market reach, and simplify the rental process. Testing of the prototype showed that the application effectively increases the efficiency and safety of the rental process, providing a more seamless experience for both rental owners and customers. RENTALIN demonstrates significant potential to become a leading platform in the Indonesian motorbike rental industry, offering targeted solutions to the sector’s critical issues.

Digital solutions to optimize guideline-directed medical therapy prescription rates in patients with heart failure: a clinical consensus statement from the ESC Working Group on e-Cardiology, the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology, the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professions of the European Society of Cardiology, the ESC Digital Health Committee, the ESC Council of Cardio-Oncology, and

Digital solutions to optimize guideline-directed medical therapy prescription rates in patients with heart failure: a clinical consensus statement from the ESC Working Group on e-Cardiology, the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology, the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing & Allied Professions of the European Society of Cardiology, the ESC Digital Health Committee, the ESC Council of Cardio-Oncology, and

Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU): how can rheumatology departments start to reap the benefits? A consensus document.

Patient Initiated Follow-Up (PIFU) is gaining momentum in the NHS, aiming to optimize outpatient care amidst rising service demands. PIFU is valuable in rheumatology, where the increasing demand for ongoing management exacerbates the patient backlog. Importantly, PIFU has demonstrated comparable safety and outcomes to traditional care in numerous studies. PIFU empowers patients, drives personalized care, increases efficiency, and has the potential to reduce waiting lists by allowing services to focus on new and acute cases. Effective PIFU implementation includes careful selection of patients, educating patients and healthcare staff, well defined operational guidelines, and robust remote monitoring. Digital solutions can enhance PIFU through patient education, active remote monitoring and streamlined escalation. Electronic Patient Reported Outcome Measures (ePROMs) provide a suitable and safe metric to monitor patients remotely. Given the potential benefits, outpatient departments should consider investing in PIFU as a solution to current healthcare delivery challenges and as a means for future proofing clinical systems against increasing service demands.

Digital Health Applications (DiGAs) on a Fast Track: Insights From a Data-Driven Analysis of Prescribable Digital Therapeutics in Germany From 2020 to Mid-2024.

This study aimed to analyze the rapidly evolving ecosystem of digital health applications (Digitale Gesundheitsanwendung; DiGAs) in Germany, spurred by the 2019 Digital Healthcare Act. With over 73 million people in Germany now having access to DiGAs, these prescribable digital health apps and web-based applications represent a substantial stride in health care modernization, supporting both patients and health care providers with digital solutions for disease management and care improvement. Through a data-driven approach, this research aimed to unpack the complexities of DiGA market dynamics, economic factors, and clinical evidence, offering insights into their impact over the past years. The analysis draws from a range of public data sources, including the DiGA directory, statutory health insurance reports, app store feedback, and clinical study results. As of July 1, 2024, there are 56 DiGAs listed by the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte), divided into 35 permanently and 21 preliminarily listed applications. Our findings reveal that a majority of DiGAs extend beyond the intended 1-year period to achieve permanent listing, reflecting the extensive effort required to demonstrate clinical efficacy. Economic analysis uncovered a dynamic pricing landscape, with initial prices ranging from approximately €200 to €700 (€1=US $1.07), averaging at a median of €514 for a 3-month DiGA prescription. Following negotiations or arbitration board decisions, prices typically see a 50% reduction, settling at a median of €221. Prescription data offer valuable insights into DiGA acceptance, with total prescriptions jumping from around 41,000 in the first period to 209,000 in the latest reporting period. The analysis of the top 15 DiGAs, representing 82% of the total prescriptions, shows that these best-performing apps receive from a minimum of 8 to a maximum of 77 daily prescriptions, with native apps and early market entrants achieving higher rates. Clinical evidence from all 35 permanently listed DiGAs indicates a uniform preference for randomized controlled trials to validate primary end points, with no noteworthy use of alternative study designs encouraged in the Digital Healthcare Act and related regulations. Moreover, all evaluated DiGAs focused on medical benefits, with health status improvement as a key end point, suggesting an underuse of patient-relevant structural and procedural improvement in demonstrating health care impact. This study highlights the growth and challenges within the DiGA sector, suggesting areas for future research, such as the exploration of new study designs and the potential impact of patient-relevant structural and procedural improvements. For DiGA manufacturers, the strategic advantage of early market entry is emphasized. Overall, this paper underscores the evolving landscape of digital health, advocating for a nuanced understanding of digital health technology integration in Germany and beyond.

Applying Engagement Marketing And Human-Centered Design to Cocreate a Digital Decision Support Tool for Research Participation with LGBTQIA+ Community Members.

We used engagement marketing and human-centered design principles to cocreate a digital decision support tool for research participation with LGBTQIA+ community members to help them make an informed decision about joining the All of Us Research Program. Building on results from the research phase, we conducted eight problem validation and solutioning workshops with 48 LGBTQIA+ community members. Community members validated barriers to engagement with All of Us and brainstormed 47 potential digital solutions. We developed potential solutions into 27 concepts (descriptive text and visual storyboards) and assessed acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, and engagement in a set of 10 concept testing workshops with 57 community members. We developed one of the highest rated concepts, the "Decide Later Tool," into a prototype and tested it with 45 LGBTQIA+ community members and 14 community advisory group members to assess acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, usability, and engagement. Prototype testing participants indicated that the tool provides information to help with decision making, provides a clear value or benefit to them, was designed for someone like them, provides the right amount of information, and is easy to use; they also offered constructive feedback to improve it. Across the design and development phases, community members indicated that the process of engaging them demonstrated integrity, competence, dependability, trust, and collaboration; fostered a sense of connection to All of Us; and will enhance future engagement with All of Us. Our next steps are to develop the prototype into a fully functioning web tool and pilot test it in community and health care settings.

A Framework for Enhancing Adoption of Mobile-based Surveillance for Crop Pest and Disease Management by Farmers in Kenya

Crop pests and diseases are ranked as some of the world’s leading threats to agricultural productivity. Though different digital solutions have been developed in the last decade to monitor and control biosecurity threats, their adoption in developing nations remain sluggish. The need to improve adoption of digital solutions prompted a review on the applicability of emerging digital solutions in large-scale surveillance of crop pest and diseases in developing nations. The study presents findings on key requirements for achieving digitized large-scale pest surveillance, fitness for purpose of common autonomous biosecurity surveillance technologies, and prospects of smartphones as alternative surveillance solution. Firstly, the research identified appropriateness of the solution, availability of supporting infrastructure and level of stakeholder involvement in solution formulation as some of the key determinants of digital solution adoption. Secondly, though most common autonomous biosecurity surveillance technologies are promising, their adoption in developing nations are limited by operational cost, legal requirements, required skillset, and operational environment among others. Thirdly, recent advancements in smartphones and wide spread ownership among farmers provide a unique opportunity for advancing Mobile Crowd-Sensing solutions in achieving large-scale pest surveillance. Lastly, we recommend designing an incentive mechanism to motivate farmers’ participation in MCS based surveillance solution.

A Partial Offline Payment System for Connecting the Unconnected Using Internet of Things: A Survey

The digital revolution in finance has bypassed many in rural areas due to limited access to technology and infrastructure. While real-time Internet banking isn’t feasible, a new approach is needed to create a secure, low-cost banking ecosystem for these unconnected populations. Existing offline payment mechanisms, prevalent in countries like India, offer some solutions but may still be expensive for rural communities. Researchers are exploring cost-effective solutions based on the Internet of Things (IoT). This study explores various IoT and non-IoT-based offline digital banking solutions to identify potential ways to provide digital payment options for the unconnected rural population.

Technological Integration in CRM: A Case Study of Madurai's Hospitality Sector

This study examines the role of technological integration in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) within Madurai's hospitality sector, focusing on how digital tools and software solutions enhance customer engagement and service delivery. As the tourism and hospitality industry in Madurai continues to grow, driven by its cultural significance and heritage, effective CRM practices have become essential for maintaining competitive advantage. This case study investigates how hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in Madurai leverage CRM technologies to streamline operations, personalize guest experiences, and foster long-term relationships. The research analyses the adoption of CRM software, mobile applications, and data analytics in enhancing customer satisfaction, increasing retention rates, and improving operational efficiency. Findings reveal that while the use of technology in CRM has significantly improved service standards and customer interactions, challenges such as system integration, staff training, and cost constraints remain. This study offers insights into the potential of technological CRM solutions to transform the hospitality landscape in Madurai, contributing to both academic literature and practical applications in the tourism and hospitality industries.