It was a great experience to attend the Fitbit Captivate 2016 conference this past week and learn more about the powerful impact wearables can have on a wellness program. Much of what was shared aligns exactly with our 8+years of experience in implementing wearables at Motion Connected. We continue to see high sustained engagement and excitement when wearables are implemented. Why do we see this with wearables more than any other wellness initiative? Here are some of the reasons shared at the Fitbit Captivate conference:
1. Wearables are Consumer focused
Wearables are built and designed with the end user in mind. In order to capture the interest of potential buyers, device powerhouses like Fitbit are continuously working to provide new ways to make their device experience more fun, engaging and simple to use. Because of this we are starting to see wearables become something that employees engage with and purchase on their own, outside of work. Meaning the hard work has been done for you. Employees already WANT devices, which is in direct contrast to other common workplace wellness initiatives like biometrics, health coaching, or online courses. This “want” can drive adoption and engagement because employees are hearing about wearables, and seeing friends, family and co-workers wearing a device. By offering wearables in your wellness program you offering something employees can identify with and want to be part of.
2. Wearables are on 24/7
Some of the poorest choices for health are made outside the work hours. Wearables are great because they are a reminder that is with a participant 24/7. From evaluating sleep patterns, to giving move reminders throughout the day, and tracking all daily stats, wearables are the wellness initiative that go beyond just the 9-5.
3. Wearables Give Insightful Data
Activity trackers are offering organizations data that they simply couldn’t have access to previously. Monitoring real-time activity data from wearables can give a company a pulse on the uptake of their wellness program. This data allows for potential adjustments to program design and communication throughout the year, while also offering the ability to recognize and reward employees’ healthy behaviors.
4. Wearables Provide Scalability
Wellness for the masses is made easier with wearables. Wearing a device is easy for participants and can be less difficult than other wellness initiatives to implement at large, multi-location companies.
5. Wearables Strengthen Social Connections
When your employees see and know others that are wearing a device it opens up conversations and possible networking through the wearables platform. Challenges can bring together people who haven’t interacted previously driving a noticeable culture shift throughout the organization.
6. Wearables are High Touch
Too many wellness programs are one and done. Making them insufficient to create behavioral change. A good wearables program will encourage employees to engage throughout the year, providing a constant reminder to make the healthy choice.
If you are looking to build the type of wellness program that employees line up to participate in, consider a strategic wearables program.
You can download our e-book on developing an engagement strategy that will successfully move the needle on population health.
