Co-designing a framework for evaluation of assistive technology: learning from people with acquired brain injury and the assistive technology advisors they engage

BACKGROUND: Assistive technology can change the way executive function support is provided to people with acquired brain injury (ABI). However, tools to guide consideration and selection of technology for cognitive support are lacking. The aim of this study was to co-design and co-produce a tool that can be used by assistive technology advisors collaborating with people with ABI to evaluate assistive products used for cognitive support. METHODS: McKercher's six-phase co-design process was used. A small circle co-design group was purposively constructed including people with ABI lived experience, practicing health professional and researchers, and injury and disability insurers. The small circle co-design work was coupled with large circle stakeholder engagement across three online health professional workshops and one in-person workshop. RESULTS: A Framework for the Evaluation of Assistive Technology was drafted, tested and refined using detailed co-design and co-production processes across six phases. Workshop feedback was iteratively incorporated to finalise the framework. The Framework for the Evaluation of Assistive Technology is now available for use via a free website, called My Technology Space. CONCLUSION: Co-design of the Framework for the Evaluation of Assistive Technology across multiple phases of work enhanced its utility and drew on perspectives of people with ABI who use assistive technology, as well as health professionals and funders of assistive products and services.