Exploring Digital Platforms for the CLEFT-Q®

The CLEFT-Q® is a validated Patient Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) for patients aged 8 to 29 years with Cleft Lip and/or Palate (CLP). This study aims to determine if using animations and colors in the presentation of the CLEFT-Q will affect the overall experience and questionnaire responses. The CLEFT-Q® was administered in two different software platforms: REDCap and Tickit. Focus groups or individual interviews were used to obtain participant feedback. Responses to the CLEFT-Q® questions were compared between the software platforms. Setting: Pediatric tertiary care center. Individuals aged 8-29y with cleft lip and/or palate living in British Columbia. Twenty out of 26 participants preferred Tickit. Participants described Tickit as a more engaging platform; they felt that the use of colours and animations made the questionnaire less intimidating, which made it easier to answer emotionally charged questions. Participants felt that looking at one question at a time on Tickit allowed them to answer more honestly. Conversely, some participants appreciated the simplicity and efficiency of having all the questions on one page in REDCap. 76% of participant responses were the same on each platform. Using different software for administering the CLEFT-Q® can affect a patient’s experience. Most participants preferred the Tickit version; they felt that the layout was more engaging and less intimidating. These results support further development and validation of the CLEFT-Q® in Tickit.