Identifying success factors in mHealth for diabetes self-management

Abstract: Diabetes if not managed properly may have severe health implications. Mobile applications that support its management have been developed, however, little research has examined their success. The aim of this mixed-methods study is to identify success factors of such applications from the users` perspective. The research process was guided by a conceptual frame- work based on the updated DeLone and McLean information systems success model. Interviews were conducted on users of a specific application as the main data source, which was combined with a survey that reached users of various apps, following Farmer`s triangulation protocol. Our outcomes indicate that although the users` attitude toward the examined application was generally positive, they expressed their desire for more functions and better overall output. Additionally, our study suggests that the ability to track the results and key metrics over time have given users the possibility to better control their disease and made their life more convenient. This also constitutes the strongest incentive for using the app. Finally, the cost implications of using such applications seems to affect user satisfaction levels.