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Key observations
Attrition rates and engagement are challenges with most digital apps. This study showed
a low engagement rate where most participants engaged fewer than 15 times over the six months.
This section aims to provide some suggestions, based on existing literature, that may help
with improving engagement. Ideally, when users engage the app, they are clear of what it does
and how it can help them make desired changes. It is evident that user experience and clarity on
what and how to use the app are critical for retention. For a cognitive behavioural approach to
provide value, an individual would typically need to be active for a minimum of four weeks —
ideally up to 10 or 12 — to provide them time to begin creating new habits and beliefs.
The vision for the Hugr Authentic Connections app was not to be predominantly content.
It was to be a program that would identify where the person is and help them on a journey to
improve and retain the number of their authentic connections.
Recommendations based on the literature to increase engagement and retention with Hugr
Authentic Connections app
• Gamification — Many studies indicate features of apps that may make them more
engaging [66]–[71]. "Gamification" involves adding elements commonly used in video
games to improve engagement [72]. There are several potential forms of gamification for
the Hugr Authentic Connections app. One option would be encouraging more flow or the
sense of a "journey" through aspects of the app. For example, enhancing the user's
experience by providing clarity on the Hugr Authentic Connections app journey (e.g.,
Jasmine's Journey; see www.hugr.ca to review). One vision could be using a graphic
with a short video that engages the person on "what is the Hugr Authentic Connections
