User research identified that existing compression products are uncomfortable, hot, and difficult to apply creating greater levels of non-conformance where the therapy is prescribed; thereby reducing is efficacy for the patient. Encircle differs greatly from standard products in several key areas. The next to skin merino component provides increased long term comfort, the two layer system enables self application by the patient, and the pressure release mechanism enables the patient to temporarily relieve the total level of pressure when wearing for long periods. And critically, for the effective specification, sale and education of the customer, Encircle has a specification system intrinsically linked to the physical embodiment of the product to streamline diagnosis.
Table 11 Encircles Strengths
Competitor Weakness |
Encircle Strength |
Constructed from synthetic - materials which result in discomfort through overheating and excessive perspiration |
Merino micro-environment - encircle is constructed of a novel bi-component material harnessing the next to skin performance of natural merino fibre. Merino increases the lifespan from 0-3 months to 6-9 months of daily use. |
Difficult to apply - patients (especially elderly) find compression very difficult to apply and remove (leading to poor compliance with prescribed therapy) |
A two layer system - with specific visual and mechanical aids integrated into the textile, enabling easier application, which aids therapy conformance |
Pressure builds up - from prolong periods of application resulting in non-compliance. |
Pressure release - Pressure build up is managed by the new textile’s ability to control stretch and the ability for a patient to temporarily relieve pressure without removing the product |
Difficult to specify - the correct compression. Nurses and clinicians find it difficult to specify the correct compression therapy (resulting in non-compliance). |
Specification system - A measurement system is connected to the product, encompassing sizing & structure, and enabling easier, more accurate specification. |