Table 1.

Implementation mechanism-related terms and definitions (adapted from [4])

Term	Definition
Precondition	Factor that is necessary in order for an implementation mechanism to be activated
Mechanism	Process or event through which an implementation strategy operates to affect desired implementation outcomes
Mediator	Intervening variable that may account for the relationship between the implementation strategy and the implementation outcome (Note: although mechanisms are always mediators, not all mediators are mechanisms)
Moderator	Factor that increases or decreases the level of influence of an implementation strategy
Proximal outcome	Product of the implementation strategy that is realized because of its specific mechanism of action; the most immediate, observable outcome in the causal pathway
Distal outcome	What the implementation process is ultimately intended to achieve