A Mixed-Methods Study of Perceived Implementation Challenges for WIC Online Ordering and Transactions

Federal food assistance programs are working towards online grocery shopping. Online shopping in Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is emerging following successful implementation in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The objective of this mixed-methods study was to identify anticipated challenges, potential solutions, and expected costs of WIC online shopping. Respondents (n = 145) described anticipated challenges across five topic areas: rules and regulations; shopping experience; security, confidentiality, fraud, and WIC State agency processes; training, assistance, and education; and access and buy-in. This study identified several, critical anticipated challenges and considerations that will help prepare WIC State agencies for opportunities to expand online shopping to WIC participants.

• Related Resources

  • Blueprint for WIC Online Shopping Projects

  • State Agencies’ Perspectives on Planning and Preparing for WIC Online Ordering Implementation

  • Vendors’ Perceptions and Experiences with WIC Online Shopping Implementation

  • Application of a Delphi Technique to Identify the Challenges for Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance of WIC Online Ordering Across Various Systems and Stakeholders

RESOURCE TYPE:

Research

AUTHOR(S):

Center for Nutrition & Health Impact (formerly the Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition)

AUDIENCE(S):

USDA FNS, WIC State agencies, Advocates, Researchers, EBT processors, eCommerce, WIC-authorized vendors

TOPIC AREA(S):

Contracts, Federal Regulations and Guidance, Reporting, Technology (MIS, EBT, eCommerce), Training

STAGE OF ONLINE SHOPPING:

Plan and Prepare, Design and Build, Implement

LANGUAGE:

English

WIC STATE AGENCY(S):

All Agencies

LAST UPDATED:

May 4, 2023