Technology

The physical, technical and simplicity of initially setting up, and then using the technology regularly.

Considers:

• how easy the technology was to use initially. This includes physical aspects of setting up any equipment and technical demands of any registration/initial set up
• the time taken to set up the technology for use initially and at each subsequent use
• how easy it is to continue to use the technology through the planned rehabilitation intervention period
• how suitable the technology is for its intended use
• the degree to which the technological intervention aligns with existing work flows
• the users’ perceptions of the ease of use of the technology and to what degree it meets their expectations
• the intended users’ familiarity with the technology (or its similarity to other technologies)

Real-world, physical factors that influence who can access and utilise the technology.

Considers:

• if individual users have access to the hardware that the rehabilitation technology requires
• the availability and potential cost of the connectivity needed to utilise the rehabilitation technology as intended
• if all intended users are likely to have access to the rehabilitation technology, the potential reasons for not having access and steps that can be taken to mitigate exclusion

The suitability of the technology for its intended use including benefits and usability.

Considers:

• the degree to which the technology can address the target of rehabilitation
• the clarity of the user interface enabling it to be accessible and easily navigable by the intended users
• the degree to which the technology can be adapted and personalised so it is optimally suitable for intended users,
• if and how the technology can provide relevant feedback/data for all users
• if and how the technology can facilitate service-user engagement (by supporting independent use, facilitating self-efficacy, providing reminders, prompts etc to continue engagement, novelty and fun) in the intended population

The intended environment the technology is to be used in. This includes physical factors such as space for equipment but also connectivity, hardware etc required.

Considers:

• the physical space needed to utilise the technology
• the availability and provision of hardware needed to utilise the rehabilitation technology in the intended setting
• need for internet connectivity before, during or after use and the quality, strength and cost of the internet connectivity when used in the intended setting
• if portability is required to enable use in different intended settings
• any infection control considerations if to be re-used or used by more than one user

Understanding the available technologies on the market and their selection.

Considers:

• the suitability of the rehabilitation technology for the intended use, setting and population
• what resources you can utilise to find the available technologies from which to make your selection
• if there is an opportunity to trial a potential technology in the clinical setting (to try before you buy)
• exploring the research evidence supporting its effectiveness (see also evidence and evaluation domain)

The process of identifying funding and the processes to utilise funding to purchase the technology and maintain it.

Considers:

• identification of the processes and people within the organisation and the information required by them to apply for and gain funding for the rehabilitation technology
• identification of initial and ongoing costs
• understanding local procurement processes in your organisation
• the time needed for staff to lead, support and engage with the technology implementation
• the need, provision and time required for ongoing training of users of technology
• contingencies within funding to react to unforeseen events such as replacement parts and additional equipment
• the availability of ongoing funding to ensure the rehabilitation technology can be updated and maintained after initial purchase