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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2010 Jun 1.
Published in final edited form as: Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2009 Jun;140(6 Suppl 1):S1–43. doi: 10.1016/j.otohns.2009.04.015

Table 17.

Dimensions of implementability for guideline recommendations

Dimension Definition
1. Decidability Precisely under what circumstances to do something
2. Executability Exactly what to do under the circumstances defined
3. Effect on process of care The degree to which the recommendation impacts upon the usual
workflow in a typical care setting
4. Presentation and formatting The degree to which the recommendation is easily recognizable and
succinct
5. Measurable outcomes The degree to which the guideline identifies markers or endpoints to
track the effects of implementation of this recommendation
Apparent validity The degree to which the recommendation reflects the intent of the
developer and the strength of the evidence
Novelty and innovation The degree to which the recommendation proposes behaviors
considered unconventional by clinicians or patients
Flexibility The degree to which a recommendation permits interpretation and
allows for alternatives in its execution

Adapted from Shiffman et al.46