Digital workplace health promotion Development of an evaluation concept for digital programs

Background Although the number of companies using programs for workplace health promotion (WHP) has increased, digital WHP tools are used very little despite progressive digitalization. Despite the many benefits of digital WHP, such as high range, topicality and versatility, there are also several concerns regarding data protection and data security as well as deficient reliability and quality. Objective This article deals with the evaluation of digital WHP options. The objective was to develop an evaluation concept for online options and internet platforms, web pages, and mobile applications. The evaluation concept focuses on providers that cover all aspects of digital WHP (e.g. diagnostics, intervention and evaluation). Material and methods Based on the advantages and disadvantages of WHP and digital health communication, five evaluation criteria have been derived (i.e. information, interactivity, technical development, design of the homepage and quality management). These categories comprise 16 different subcriteria, such as quality, topicality, scientific foundation, interpersonal communication, tailoring and compatibility of online options. Each item of the categories can be rated on a 3-point scale with respect to fulfilment using appropriate coding rules. Conclusion Due to the construction of the evaluation concept (e.g. categories, criteria and rating scale) the concept is principally expected to be structured, objective and efficient. The use of this evaluation concept should be preceded by a self-critical consideration of the motivation and goal-setting including basic information about the (digital) WHP options.