Author: Lisa Fresser / Tina Schart
Title: User Interface Design of a Smartphone Application for Early Detection and Reduction of Risk Factors for Dementia as Part of an EU Study
Year of publication: 2022
Why I chose this master thesis: The idea for my own master thesis is also focused on creating an app for preventive health measures with gamification elements. This thesis intrigued me because it explores a very similar concept, but with a more specific focus on early detection and reduction of dementia risk factors. Additionally, the project was developed in collaboration with other health institutions, which adds to a practical, real-world dimension that I find inspiring and relevant to my own work.
–> How is the artifact documented in the thesis?
The main outcome of the project, referred to as the artifact, was the concept and design of the LETHE app. The thesis documents the artifact thoroughly by presenting the design process, wireframes, user interface concepts, and interactive prototypes. It also includes detailed explanations of the design decisions, user scenarios, and feedback from workshops, making it easy to understand how the app was developed and why certain design choices were made.
–> Where and how can it be accessed?
As it was mentioned in the Master thesis, the app had launched in 2022, and should had be ongoing till 2024. But after some google search I discovered that the project was prolonged and still on the developing mode. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find the app in the App-store nor in the Play Market, suggesting that it’s still on the developing stage and the thesis itself is promary source to review the concept and design of the app
–> Do the theoretical arguments and the practical implementation align?
Yes, the theoretical foundation of the project aligns well with the practical implementation. The design decisions and interface solutions clearly reflect the research on user needs, early detection of dementia risk factors, and UX principles. The artifact demonstrates a consistent connection between theory and practice throughout the development process.
–> Is the documentation clear and comprehensible?
Yes, the thesis is well-structured and comprehensible. Each stage of the design process is clearly documented, supported by visual materials such as wireframes and mockups. The logical flow of the thesis allows readers to understand the development process step by step, even if they are not experts in UX or healthcare applications.
–> Does the quality of the work piece meet the standards expected of a master’s thesis?
Yes, the work meets the standards expected of a master’s thesis. The artifact shows a high level of competence, and the thesis demonstrates methodological rigor, originality, and attention to detail.
Overall presentation quality: 10/10
The thesis is very well-presented, with a clear structure and logical progression. The outcome, the design of the LETHE app, is impressive and professionally documented.
Degree of innovation: 8/10
The project focuses on detecting and reducing risk factors for dementia. While the idea is not entirely new, it is valuable and well-executed. The potential impact is significant; if the app reaches a larger user base than the initial 160 users mentioned, it could make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare field.
Independence: 9/10
The students demonstrated strong independence throughout the project. They showed high organization from diving into history of gamification and how to apply it (Octalysis Framework) to handling ideation and testing workshops with potential users and support of medical workers like Helena Untersteiner from the department of Neurology at the AKH. I believe that collaboration with health and high-academic institutes provided students with the source-information from real patients and as a result led to the best structure of the app rather if it would be handled in normal-environment
Organization and structure: 10/10
The thesis is highly organized, following all steps of the design thinking process. Each section is logically connected, making it easy to follow the progression from research to final design.
Communication: 8/10
The thesis communicated ideas clearly, though at times the documentation could have been more concise. Some images were repetitive or could have been simplified, but overall, the presentation was effective.
I like how they mentioned the problems they faced throughout the testing part and how it helped them to concentrate on fulfilling the content part of the app
Scope: 10/10
The length and depth of the thesis are appropriate given the seriousness and complexity of the topic. The project provides sufficient detail without overwhelming the reader.
Accuracy and attention to detail: 10/10
The thesis demonstrated a high level of precision and formal accuracy. The language and terminology were consistent throughout. However, from a UX designer’s perspective, I would suggest adding an option to increase the typography size, considering that the target users were primarily people aged 60 and above.
Literature: 8/10
The thesis cites reliable sources, including Statista and WHO data. However, UX-related research could have been strengthened by referencing more specialized sources, such as the Nielsen Norman Group or Baymard Institute, rather than LinkedIn or Medium posts.
Conclusion:
Overall, I’m impressed by the quality and scale of the project. I saved some gamification articles they used that might help me in the future. And for sure this thesis inspired me to consider reaching out to health organizations for potential collaboration opportunities.
Note: This text was proofread and grammar-checked with the help of ChatGPT.
