I’ve been working on the section on mobile apps in Stand Up for Health, and I decided app evaluation needs an acronym like CRAAP and I came up with SUSPECT.
If you’re considering other health-related mobile apps, it’s important to SUSPECT or ask the following questions
Seeking – Why are you searching for an app? Does this app do something you want or need?
Usability – How is the app designed? Is it easy to use? Do the menus or icons make sense?
Security – Do you need to make an account? Does the app share your data with friends? Does the developer share your data or sell it to other third-parties? What is the security policy? Is it easy to find? Is it written in plain language?
Price – What is the upfront cost of the app? Are there in-app purchases?
Evaluation – Read the reviews for the application, don’t just look at the stars, what are other people saying about the application in their reviews.
Creator – Who developed the application? Is the developer reputable? Do they have a website?
Timeliness – When was the application developed? When was it last updated?
Feedback welcome! Am I missing anything? Wordsmiths, do you have suggestions?
Librarian by Day 