Improving the T2D Network Website: What Users Told Us
- t2diabetesnetwork
- May 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 10
Blog highlights
✅ 10 users (5 HCPs, 5 patients) evaluated six usability domains.
✅ Content rated highly accurate by 80% of HCPs and patients.
✅ Key issues: complex menus, dense content, mobile layout, and lack of interactivity.
✅ 43 of 52 user recommendations have already been implemented.
✅ Ongoing commitment to co-design and inclusive usability testing.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, websites must continually evolve to stay relevant and meet the needs of their users. The T2D Network website, an essential resource for healthcare professionals (HCPs) and individuals managing type 2 diabetes (T2D), is no exception.
Officially re-launched after a major rebuild in March 2025, the website recently underwent its first quarterly review, aimed at assessing how well it serves its diverse user base. This post will explore the findings of that review, showcasing the strengths of the website while also addressing areas for improvement.
The quarterly review took a user-centered approach, focusing on feedback from those who use the site regularly. Ten participants were selected to represent the key audiences of the website: five healthcare professionals (HCPs) with expertise in diabetes care, and five patient partners living with T2D.
These participants evaluated the website across six key domains: content accuracy and relevance, usability and navigation, functionality and accessibility, mobile and browser compatibility, the incorporation of new technologies, and user suggestions. This comprehensive approach ensured that the feedback gathered would cover all aspects of the website’s performance.
Key Findings from the Website Quarterly Review
Key Findings
Content Accuracy & Relevance: Both groups rated content accuracy highly, with 80% of HCPs and patients agreeing it was "very accurate." Relevance was also positively rated, though slightly lower among patients (70% rating it as "very relevant").
Usability & Navigation: Healthcare professionals found the site easy to navigate (80%), but patients struggled more: only 20% found it "very easy," with 80% rating the ease of finding information as either "somewhat easy" or "not at all easy."
User Experience: HCPs rated their experience positively (60% excellent), while only 20% of patients rated it as "excellent," highlighting a gap in overall user satisfaction, especially for patients.
Key Issues Identified
Navigation & Design: Patients experienced difficulty due to complex navigation and dense menus. The mobile experience was especially challenging due to layout issues and excessive scrolling.
Language & Accessibility: Both groups highlighted the need for simpler language, with suggestions for better accessibility features like voice control, AI-guided navigation, and multilingual support.
Interactivity: There was interest in more interactive features such as chatbots and explainer videos, as well as a focus on simplifying content and reducing unnecessary details.
Healthcare professionals valued the website’s accuracy and alignment with clinical standards, suggesting updates on insulin types, medical devices, and the inclusion of clinician bios. While patients appreciated the content but desired more specific medical details and simpler language. They also requested content tailored to specific communities and better usability.
Hear our patient's partner, Joy's, first impressions of the new T2D Network Website.
Recommendations for Improvement
Simplify Navigation and Layout
Enhance Accessibility
Improve Content Usability
Increase Interactivity
Tailor Content for Specific Groups:
Optimize Search Engine and Mobile Features
In response to the feedback received, the T2D Network team has outlined a comprehensive action plan and to date, we have implemented 43 of the 52 recommendations from our reviewers, and are working on the remaining items.
Testimonials: Voices of Users
The review also captured qualitative feedback from both healthcare professionals and patients. Positive feedback highlighted the value of the website’s content and user-friendliness.
One patient partner commented, “I love this website. It’s going to evolve over time and be incredibly useful.” Another patient added, “I’m amazed by the amount of content and the Team page. It’s fantastic.”
Healthcare professionals also expressed their satisfaction, with one saying, “This is one of the best sites I’ve seen. So thankful for it.”
Lessons Learned and the Path Forward
The review emphasized an important lesson: while content is king, user experience is paramount. The significant difference in feedback between healthcare professionals and patients points to areas where the site can improve.
Several factors may explain the differences in user feedback. First, the HCP side of the website was developed earlier, allowing more time to refine and test it, while the patient sections were added later. Also, healthcare professionals are generally more comfortable using digital platforms and medical terms, making the site easier for them to navigate. On the other hand, patients may expect more personalized, culturally relevant, and interactive content that better reflects their own experiences with diabetes.
In response to these insights, the T2D Network team is committed to continuous co-design with patients, involving them more directly in the development process. The team will also conduct more inclusive usability testing with diverse patient populations to uncover and resolve any barriers to accessibility and usability. The goal is to ensure that the website evolves to meet the needs of all users, regardless of their background or technical expertise.
Our Commitment to Excellence
The ongoing quarterly review of the T2D Network website demonstrates the team’s dedication to user satisfaction and continuous improvement. By actively seeking user feedback and responding with concrete actions, the T2D Network is ensuring that its online platform remains a trusted, accessible resource for both healthcare professionals and individuals living with T2D.
The lessons learned from this review will guide future development, ensuring the website remains a vital tool for T2D education, support, and care. This version should provide a clear, cohesive narrative while covering all the essential findings and actions from the review in an engaging and informative way.
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