Implementation science and human-centered design (HCD) offer useful frameworks and methods for considering
and designing for individuals’ needs and preferences when implementing new interventions or technologies in
global health. When used in tandem, the two approaches may blend creative and partnered research methods
with a focus on the factors necessary to design, implement, and sustain interventions. However, research is
needed that describes the process of blending these two approaches and explores the experiences of community partners.
This study builds from a stepped-wedge cluster-randomized trial in Western Kenya, wherein teachers and community health volunteers have been trained to provide trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT). Mobile phones emerged as a tool to supervise lay counselors from afar; however, their use was characterized by unique challenges. Informed by human-centered design and implementation science, we first engaged lay counselors (n = 24) and supervisors (n = 3) in individual semi-structured interviews then hosted an in-person participatory workshop to “co-design” solutions to optimize the use of mobile phone supervision. Lay counselors participated in focus group discussions regarding their experiences in the workshop.
Focus group transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. We describe our approach as well as focus group discussion results.