#Japan #Tokyo #Smart Habit #WizWe #Takato Irukayama

Innovative Partnership for Health Habit Improvement

WizWe, a company headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, specializing in behavior change through its habit formation platform "Smart Habit," has welcomed two prominent researchers to enhance its operations. Dr. Masumi Okamoto, an expert in preventive medicine and a public health PhD, along with Dr. Takato Irukayama, the director of Irukayama Future Creation Institute, have joined the WizWe Habit Formation Research Institute as researchers.

The Smart Habit platform combines personal support, behavioral economics, data analytics, and AI technologies to help individuals effectively sustain changes in their habits. This service spans various sectors, including education, fitness, and healthcare, aiming to foster enduring behavioral changes among users.

The addition of Dr. Okamoto's expertise in preventive medicine and public health, along with Dr. Irukayama's groundbreaking work in AI implementation and applied research, strengthens the research framework of WizWe. This collaboration will enhance the integration of scientific evidence-based habit improvement strategies with advanced AI technologies, paving the way for more impactful health and lifestyle interventions.

The Impact of WizWe Habit Formation Research Institute

The WizWe Habit Formation Research Institute relies on a rich data pool of over 40,000 behavioral records, which dedicated researchers analyze through academic methods. Insights gained from this analysis are rooted in scientific theory and optimized for implementation within the Smart Habit support services. This institute is dedicated to exploring innovative methods for behavioral change, with a commitment to advancing evidence-based practices in habit formation.

Overview of Research Endeavors by the Institute

The research institute has undertaken various studies related to habit formation, emphasizing effectiveness across diverse scenarios. Some notable findings include:

• - The impact of training staff on learner performance in corporate language training, using Smart Habit for a 3-6 month English program (JSSP Conference, 2022).
• - The effects of a LINE-based support system for senior citizens practicing slow jogging (JSSP Conference, 2024).
• - Enhancements in attendance at fitness clubs through LINE support for new members (JPA Conference, 2024).
• - Connections between behavioral stages and outcomes in a sleep improvement program for drivers (JPA Conference, 2025).

These studies highlight the potential of Smart Habit not just in theory, but as a practical application in real-life scenarios.

Profiles of Researchers

Dr. Masumi Okamoto

As a member of the WizWe research team, Dr. Okamoto is a seasoned expert in preventive medicine and public health, specializing in behavioral change, digital health, and women's health. Dr. Okamoto has conducted extensive research, analyzing data from over 5,000 long-term cohorts, and spearheaded studies on lifestyle improvements through mobile applications. Working alongside municipalities and corporations, she designs and evaluates evidence-based policies and business initiatives. Previously affiliated with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), her experience includes managing health projects across Africa and Asia in collaboration with international organizations like WHO.
LinkedIn Profile

Dr. Takato Irukayama

Dr. Irukayama leads the Irukayama Future Creation Institute and contributes to WizWe as a researcher. Since the 1970s, he has been at the forefront of technological advancements including the development of teaching machines and robotics. He played a crucial role in the pioneering development of smartwatches and smartphones in the early 2000s. In 2014, he founded his own research institute focused on AI, IoT, and digital transformation, driving innovation in industries and society. He is also actively involved in various associations related to IoT research, legal technology, and robot therapy.

What is Smart Habit?

Smart Habit is a habit formation platform designed to aid continuous behavior maintenance. It employs theories derived from behavioral psychology and economics, utilizing data from thousands of users to eliminate dropout factors and promote sustained action. Smart Habit successfully fosters a supportive relationship between habit coaches and users, helping to achieve higher retention and completion rates in educational programs, particularly in language learning.
Since its launch in 2018, Smart Habit has successfully aided over 40,000 users. Following its growth, it has expanded its services to help other sectors, including healthcare through the Smart Habit Healthcare initiative and subscription-based companies through the Smart Habit LTV project, focusing on reducing churn and increasing customer lifetime value.

WizWe is committed to pushing the envelope in behavior change solutions for a healthier society.