Table 1 Theory-based features of PainAPP

Optimize representation

All preference items and content were derived from and organized by experienced patients

Include all potentially appropriate options and their attributes

All relevant attributes of all options are shown to patients

Suspend selection of an initially favored option (pre-selection)

Start by focusing only on attributes, not options. Introduce options afterwards

Remind decision maker of the array of values

Includes activities that require attention to the complete array of values (broad and narrow): choosing, ranking, rating

Facilitate weighting of attributes

Force selection of top 3, then ranking, then rating of each subcomponent.