F4.02 - IGNITE: Examining the Functions and Usability of AI for Health Promotion Messages

Brief Abstract Summary: This study explored the functions and usability of 8 different AI software for creating a health message. Three trained research assistants created a message using each software with the same instructions. After creating the message, they ranked each software using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Specific functions, pricing, and features of each AI software were also recorded. Results showed that the usability score for each AI software was not significantly different aside from Synthesia (M=2.67, SD=.31) receiving a significantly lower score than Create Studio (M=3.17, SD=.21). There was variation in monthly cost, ranging from $19.99 (Animaze) to $79.20 (PlayHT) per month. Most (n=7) had existing voices and half (n=4) allowed for voice cloning. Some had avatars that were animated (n=4) and others that were realistic, human avatars (n=2). Overall, this project provides insight on the features, pricing, and usability of generative AI software that could be used for health messaging.

Detailed abstract description: Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a type of AI that uses machine learning algorithms to create new and original content (e.g., images, video, text, audio). Generative AI software, such as text created by ChatGPT, voices spoken by PlayHT, and videos created by Synthesia, provides new opportunities for creating content quickly. It has the potential to allow public health organizations to create health message videos and public service announcements without requiring a marketing company or actors. Moreover, AI can facilitate the creation of multiple versions of a message personalized to individuals based on demographic characteristics. This could save money for organizations, such as local health departments and non-profit public organizations, that have limited resources. The ability to personalize and edit content can make AI-generated messages more impactful for broader audiences. While there is great opportunity to use AI, there is limited research on how AI-generated video for promoting public health messaging would be perceived by the public. More research is needed to understand how generative AI tools including digital avatars, voiceovers, and automated text can be used to create health messages to promote healthy behaviors. This study explored the functions and usability of 8 different AI software for creating a health message. Three trained research assistants majoring in public health created a message using each software with the same instructions. After creating the message, they ranked each software using the well-tested System Usability Scale (SUS). Additionally, the specific functions, pricing, and features of each AI software were recorded. Results showed that the usability score for each AI software was not significantly different with the exception of Synthesia (M=2.67, SD=.31) receiving a significantly lower score than Create Studio (M=3.17, SD=.21). In terms of features, there was variation in monthly cost, ranging from $19.99 (Animaze) to $79.20 (PlayHT) per month. All software allowed for speech to text conversion and for customization of a voice. Most (n=7) had existing voices that could be used, and half (n=4) allowed for voice cloning. Some had avatars that were animated (n=4) and others that were realistic, human avatars (n=2), although the ability to customize the avatars and voices varied across platforms. Overall, this project provides insight on the features, pricing, and usability of generative AI software that could be used for health messaging. More research is needed to test the cost-effectiveness of these software and their ability to lead to long-term health behavior change.