Insights and further desk research

The insights which were gained from the Diabetes Scotland visit where:

Looking at all of the insights, I did some desk research into diabetes and the equipment to see if there was anything already out there that would help.

• Different insulins fit into different pens:

Tried to get into contact with manufacturing companies to enquire why there are so many different insulin pens and only certain insulins fit into them

• Teenagers might like a more technology related product

Connected to their phones, as well as this maybe more discrete object and better aesthetics. 

• Something to fit in with what you are wearing

more discrete for a night out, not as obtrusive. There are already USB sized glucose meters however you still need testing strips and lancet separately

• make existing items more user friendly

This insight is an overall insight which will be applied to the product that is designed anyway. Morag says, 'Glucose meters are a bit clunky', pens and pumps are also a bit heavy to carry around.

• blood testing in the dark

there are glucose meters with lights on them however they are not focused on the lancet and they can be expensive.

• wastage

A lot of material is wasted, like the lancets, packaging, testing strips and devices which help to place the insulin pump into your skin.

• visually impaired and people with dexterity problems

There is already a talking glucose meter, this would be for the older generation. There is not enough equipment out there that helps with their needs.

• something to help mix insulin

People just mix insulin the old fashioned way by pulling out as much of the liquid as need be into a needle then doing the same for the liquid which is getting mixed. this is inaccurate.

• tool to help count carbohydrates

Diabetics have to make sure they know how much carbohydrates that they eat, it is essential when calculating the does of insulin needed.

From these insights I decided to focus on:

• Something to fit in with what you are wearing- referring to the insulin pumps
• Blood testing in the dark
• Something to help mix insulin when needed. 

I chose these insights as i felt they had more of a broader aspect to them and could be developed upon widely.