TITLE:
Testing a Mobile Application to Support Integrated Mindset Development: An Exploratory Eight-Week Pre-Post Evaluation
AUTHORS:
Michael J. Conway
KEYWORDS:
Integrated Mindset Index, Goal Setting, Digital Coaching, Mindset Development, Self-Directed Learning, Leadership Development, Mobile Intervention
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Applied Sciences,
Vol.16 No.11,
November
10,
2026
ABSTRACT: A research study in 2025 demonstrated that a mindset program built on high-performance techniques from elite sports, impacted the performance and overall wellbeing of 20 senior leaders across two global organisations [1]. The program was facilitator-led and comprised a unique online mindset learning program built in a virtual world, monthly recorded behavioural video interviews with the researcher, quantitative survey instruments and communication sentiment analysis. A key element of the research was the development and application of a 12-category diagnostic framework named the Integrated Mindset Index (IMI) based on the literature and supported by deep professional expertise. This paper presents the outcomes of taking the IMI framework, building it into a mobile app and assessing its impact without any live facilitation support. To achieve this, 30 professionals from a range of backgrounds (Appendix B) took part in a single group pre-post eight-week study. People from the researcher’s global network were invited to participate, the aim being to recruit a group of 50:50 male/female and ranging across many skills and professions. Participants completed self-assessments across the 12 IMI categories using the app, followed by building their Performance Improvement Mindset plan (PIMS) setting out their personal goals, actions, and timelines. A weekly email prompt was the only contact from the researcher. Support was provided in the form of a built-in text-based coach, accessible throughout. By the end of the study, the retention rate was high with 21 participants (70%) completing both the pre and post surveys and connecting with the app at least once a week. Across this cohort, average aggregate IMI scores rose from 7.28 out of 10 at the start to 7.86 by Week 8, showing an 8.0% improvement. The biggest change observed was in the Reflection & Feedback category, with a 21% increase followed by improvements in Social Skills & Communication, Self-Management, and Learning & Development. The participants who did not complete the program (n = 9) had a lower aggregate baseline score (6.31 v 7.28). As their Week 8 outcomes were missing, the results are for completers. At the commencement of the program, 48% of participants set and tracked personal goals. By Week 8, 95% of respondents were actively building goals and working towards them. Participants most often credited the app with helping build deeper self-awareness, helping build consistent daily habits, and a more proactive approach to their own personal development. These preliminary findings suggest that the app may support self-reported consistent positive change in mindset for those who use it over a short period. Controlled studies with longer follow-up should be undertaken to test whether these changes last and their cost benefit.