Exploring opportunities for online pharmacy design for Moroccan citizens

In countries with limited digital capabilities such as Morocco, the adoption of electronic services faces significant challenges owing to limited awareness and prevalent apprehension among the local population. Existing pharmacy services predominantly rely on manual processes, which cause inconvenience for the community. To address this issue and cater to the needs of the community, a comprehensive survey was conducted that involved 41 residents. The survey findings not only provide insights into the needs of the community but also serve as a foundation for tailoring electronic services to this specific demographic. Considering the survey results, we further introduced “MoulPharmacy”, an accessible online platform designed to streamline the purchase of over-the-counter medications. The main goal of “MoulPharmacy” is to bridge the gap between consumers and local pharmacies by providing a user-friendly interface for seamless medication procurement. This platform enables local citizens to order medications effortlessly, with the added convenience of doorstep delivery. To understand the perceptions and potential adoption factors of “MoulPharmacy” in countries with limited digital capabilities, we conducted a user study with 20 Moroccan citizens to explore aspects such as website aesthetics, ease of use, and the overall purchasing process. A synthesis of the results of both the survey and the user study, reveals that this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of the unique requirements of citizens in countries with digital challenges. “MoulPharmacy” not only addresses practical challenges faced by residents but also sets a precedent for future developments in online pharmacy-related platforms designed for countries with limited digital capabilities. This research establishes essential design principles that can guide the creation of tailored solutions, by examining the specific requirements of this demographic, which fosters the adoption of electronic services in resource-constrained settings. • Addressing the Digital Divide in LDCs: This research tackles the significant challenges faced by least developed countries (LDCs) like Morocco in adopting electronic services, particularly within the pharmacy sector. The study underscores the importance of developing accessible and user-friendly digital platforms to cater to the unique needs of these communities. • Cultural and Societal Nuances: By conducting a comprehensive survey involving 41 residents and a user study with 20 Moroccan citizens, the research delves into the cultural and societal factors influencing the acceptance of e-services. It highlights the necessity of understanding and integrating local sensibilities into the design of digital platforms. • Innovative Online Platform Development: The paper introduces “MoulPharmacy,” an innovative online platform designed to streamline the purchase of over-the-counter medications. This accessible and user-friendly solution addresses the practical challenges faced by local residents and demonstrates the transformative potential of e-services in healthcare accessibility. • Fostering Technology Adoption: The research contributes to the broader discourse on technology adoption in emerging economies. It establishes essential design principles that can guide the creation of tailored solutions, fostering the adoption of electronic services in resource-constrained settings. • Paradigm Shift in Consumer Behavior: Through the “MoulPharmacy” initiative, this study explores the potential to redefine healthcare accessibility and instigate a shift in consumer behavior towards embracing digital healthcare services in Morocco and similar LDCs. • Implications for Digital Healthcare and E-Commerce: The findings offer valuable insights for the development of online healthcare services and the broader e-commerce sector in Morocco. The research provides a foundation for future developments in online pharmacy-related platforms, setting a precedent for user-centered design in LDCs.