The Promoting Active Communities Program: improvement of Michigan's self-assessment tool.
BACKGROUND
This project updated and improved the Promoting Active Communities Program (PAC), a Web-based assessment that enables communities to scrutinize their programs, policies, and environments related to physical activity, generating ideas and community commitment for improvements.


METHODS
A literature review, focus groups, and expert review guided PAC improvements.


RESULTS
Over 150 articles and audit measures in the fields of transportation, public health, and urban planning were reviewed. Indicators were identified, categorized, and evaluated for use in the PAC. Focus-group participants communicated motivations, processes, and obstacles for completing the PAC and developing an action plan. Participants requested technical information to guide them in achieving active-living environments.


CONCLUSIONS
Information gathered was used to improve the PAC Web site. A technical assistance document, Design Guidelines for Active Michigan Communities, was created to aid communities in creating active-living environments. The new PAC and Design Guidelines are available for public use at www.mihealthtools.org/communities.
Alaimo
Katherine
K
Dept of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
Bassett
Ellen M
EM
Wilkerson
Risa
R
Petersmarck
Karen
K
Mosack
Jennifer
J
Mendez
David
D
Couttst
Chris
C
Grost
Lisa
L
Stegmier
Lori
L
D003256:Community Participation; D015444:Exercise; D017144:Focus Groups; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008370:Manuals as Topic; D008824:Michigan; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D015397:Program Evaluation / Q000592:standards*; D011634:Public Health