A Theory-Driven System Model to Promote Physical Activity in the Working Environment with a Persuasive and Gamified Application

Physical activity (PA) is important to prevent and lessen the risks of various diseases as well as progress in physical and mental health. Employees expend a lot of time at their workplace such as office environment. Working efficiency may be harmfully affected if the worker is physically inactive. The purpose of this study was to design a system model to guide employees at their workplace on their PA promotion. We propose a system model integrating the psychological theory known as Self-determination Theory (SDT) which indicates that people can be motivated extrinsically through the fulfilment of three psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. To do this, game elements such as points, badges and leaderboard were applied into the system model. We utilized the system model to design a gamified persuasive application. We developed a prototype of PA promotion app using the User-Centered Design (UCD) process. We conducted UCD iteration and pilot-tested the prototype of an app with end users. They used the prototype of an app to perform some activities e.g. walking after breakfast and lunch hour. We found that it brings a positive impact on the employees in promoting their PA in their workplace. The result of the study will be used to build an actual persuasive application with gamification techniques.