As we continue developing Ake and refining its role in supporting men on their journey through behaviour change programmes, we’re constantly exploring ways to increase accessibility and impact.
One of the questions we’ve been seriously considering is: Should we open up Ake’s website version so users can access it without needing to log in?
What This Could Mean
Right now, Ake is offered to services who provide access to the app for their DFSV programme participants. These users log in to the app (whether on mobile or web) and access a set of interactive modules, tools, and a forum-like feature we call Discussions—designed to extend the therapeutic environment outside of sessions.
But we know there are many men out there who aren’t currently connected to a service but who might still benefit from Ake’s resources. Making the web version of Ake freely accessible—without needing a login—could remove one more barrier between them and the support they need.
Imagine any man, at any point in his journey, being able to explore Ake’s content—no strings attached.
What We’d Be Giving Up (Sort Of)
Of course, there are trade-offs. Without being logged into Ake users would be limited to just the Emotions Compass and Content Library. This means:
- Service providers wouldn’t be able to send push notifications, a helpful nudge to engage users at the right time.
- Users wouldn’t have access to Discussions, our semi-private board where participants and clinicians can connect between sessions, share programme resources, set goals and more.
- There would be no way to track engagement, which is often useful for both facilitators and the men themselves.
That said, this wouldn’t mark the end of logins. The app currently available in app stores would still necessitate a login to use, meaning push notifications and discussions would be accessible to participants of programmes if they were provided a login. The web version of the app (accessible at akeapp.com) would be the only one that allows you to browse the site’s resources without needing a login.
With sufficient funding, this dual-access model could provide the best of both worlds: open access for the curious, and committed access for those in structured programmes. That said, given the current climate in which we live, you might well imagine that the path to securing successful funding for something like this has been quite challenging.
Why We’re Thinking About This Now
We’re currently piloting Ake with a handful of services across Aotearoa, and the feedback has been incredible. But it’s also highlighted a tension: there are more men who want support than there are seats in funded programmes. We want Ake to be part of closing that gap—not just reinforcing it.
Opening the web client as a resource for all could be one way to do that.
We’d Love Your Thoughts
This isn’t a decision we’re making lightly, and it’s not a done deal. We’re still testing, listening, and adjusting. But as always, we want to be transparent about where Ake is headed.
If you’re a clinician, programme facilitator, or someone working in the space of men’s behaviour change, we’d love to hear from you. Would this help? Would it hinder? Could this open door be a way for more men to walk toward change?
Let us know.