Design and evaluation of a negotiation-based sleep scheduler app for insomnia treatment

Sleep problems are increasing among society. The solutions are available yet limited to the public. Digital platforms have the benefit of accessibility. However, a lack of personalization is a primary challenge of digitalization. We designed a sleep scheduler app to support insomnia treatment and based the concepts with the principles of sleep restriction therapy. Restricted sleep schedules are provided through negotiation by taking personal sleep records into account. The app is evaluated with clinicians and target users through semi-structured interviews. The clinicians found the app well-aligned with the traditional practice. Anxiety is a significant concern as people with insomnia are sensitive by nature. The users perceived the instrument to play a vital role, and the predictions and feedback seem to be relevant to their situation. The design and strategy can increase therapy delivery, enhance the tailoring of digital interventions, and help solve the problem of scalability with higher adherence.