Smart Wearables in the Context of Corporate Health Management

Market Overview and Feasibility Study

Project Justification

Interest in a healthy lifestyle and physical fitness has grown significantly in recent years. A growing number of products aim to support individuals in achieving their fitness and nutrition goals – most notably fitness trackers equipped with integrated health and activity apps.

In parallel, companies are showing increasing concern for the well-being of their employees. Rising burnout rates and the pursuit of a sustainable work – life balance are driving the development of more comprehensive corporate health programs. Within this context, the use of fitness trackers offers a potentially cost-effective and scalable solution for promoting physical activity and preventive health measures in the workplace.

This project focused on generating insights into the use and acceptance of fitness trackers in business environments, with the goal of understanding their potential role in corporate health management strategies.

Evaluated fitness trackers (left) and mounting of a fitness tracker (right)

Our Approach

The project aimed to evaluate the practical use of fitness trackers within business environments, with a particular focus on their relevance for corporate health management. A feasibility study was conducted to assess the value of fitness trackers, accompanying apps, and integrated service models.

To this end, smart tools were tested both in a controlled living lab setting and in a real-world field study involving employees. The living lab focused on a technical evaluation, examining the validity, stability, and robustness of the devices.

Functionality was assessed by comparing the trackers’ outputs to established psychological and physiological parameters – such as heart rate accuracy, sleep quality measurement, and the detection of activity and rest phases. This allowed for a systematic validation of the trackers’ capacity to deliver meaningful and reliable health-related insights in workplace settings.

Insights and Outcomes

The field study focused on evaluating the perceived usability and acceptance of fitness trackers within real workplace environments. Participants used the devices in their daily routines, allowing for an in-depth assessment of their practical integration into employees’ work lives.

Based on the study outcomes, a comprehensive catalogue of requirements and recommendations was developed to support the successful implementation of fitness trackers in business contexts. This catalogue serves as a foundational resource for companies seeking to integrate wearable technologies into their corporate health management strategies.

The findings also provide a valuable basis for deriving evidence-based conclusions and actionable guidance for the effective and sustainable use of fitness trackers as part of broader workplace health initiatives.