Reaching standards for dissemination: A case study

At what stage are web applications ready for dissemination? A set of standards for efficacy, effectiveness and readiness for dissemination of (prevention) interventions has been developed by the Society for Prevention Research (SPR) (Flay et al., 2005) [1]. In this case study paper, we examine these standards criteria with reference to MoodGYM, an automated web application designed to reduce depression symptoms using cognitive behaviour therapy training. We examine evidence for its efficacy, its effectiveness in real world situations, and its capacity to meet recommended standards for dissemination. We conclude that MoodGYM has substantially met the standards of evidence required for dissemination. This successful application of the SPR standards to the evaluation of a web application, suggests that these prevention standards might be usefully applied to web/Internet context. Web applications might be assessed for dissemination by the International Society for Research into Internet Interventions (ISRII), or some other professional organization to assist policy makers in making decisions about the funding, adoption and promotion of applications.