Table 1. Practical guidelines for implementing a MuSCLE approach.

The steps assume that funding has been obtained for a project in a target population and setting. If funding has not yet been obtained, initiators may undertake steps 1–2 and develop a funding proposal that competes for funds to complete the process. While the steps are generic, details of what happens and how is driven by specific project objectives and context. The working groups are informal and change as the project evolves and objectives change. Steps 4–8 reflect an iterative process, with knowledge and lessons learned being actively incorporated to improve understanding and progress.