Skip to main content
. 2020 Jul 10;30(11):3015–3033. doi: 10.1007/s11136-020-02564-9

Table 1.

Key features of widely used implementation science frameworks or theories

Implementation framework or theory Nilsen [24] classification Constructs influencing implementation Case stud(ies)

Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR)

www.cfirguide.org

[34, 35]

Determinant framework: categorizes implementation barriers/enablers

Characteristics of intervention or practice (e.g., evidence, complexity, cost)

Outer setting (e.g., patient needs, policies)

Inner setting (e.g., organization/clinic characteristics, culture, implementation climate)

Characteristics of individuals (e.g., clinician knowledge, self-efficacy)

Implementation process (e.g., engaging, evaluating)

Ahmed et al. [30]: implementing ePROMs in a pain network

van Oers et al. [32]: implementing ePROMs in multiple pediatric and adult health clinics

Manalili and Santana [33]: implementing ePREMs for quality improvement in primary care

Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) [3638] Determinant framework: categorizes implementation barriers/enablers

Factors Influencing Clinician Behavior Change, e.g.:

Knowledge, skills

Professional role/identity

Beliefs about capabilities

Beliefs about consequences

Reinforcement

Intentions/goals

Environmental context and resources

Social influence

Memory, attention, decision influences

Behavioral regulation

Ahmed et al. [30]: implementing ePROMs in a chronic pain network

Integrated framework for Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (i-PARIHS)

[3942]

Determinant framework: categorizes implementation barriers/enablers

Successful implementation formula = Facn(I + R + C)

Fac = facilitation

Person or organization assigned to do work of facilitation (implementation support)

I = innovation

Characteristics of innovation

Degree of fit with existing practice and values

Usability

Relative advantage

Trialability/observable results

R = recipients

Clinical experiences/perceptions

Patient experiences, needs, preferences

C = context

Leadership support

Culture, receptivity to change

Evaluation capabilities

Roberts et al. [31]: implementing paper and electronic PROMs in a medical oncology outpatient department

Knowledge to Action (KTA)

www.kt.canada.org

[43, 44]

Process model: describes practical steps in translating research to practice

Knowledge creation phases:

Knowledge inquiry

Knowledge synthesis

Create knowledge tools

Action phases:

Determine the know/do gap

Adapt knowledge to local context

Assess barriers/facilitators to use

Select, tailor, implement

Monitor knowledge use

Evaluate outcomes

Sustain knowledge use

Manalili and Santana [33]: implementing ePREMs for quality improvement in primary care

Normalization Process Theory (NPT)

www.normalizationprocess.org

[45, 46]

Implementation theory: specifies causal mechanisms

Coherence/sense-making (what is the work?)

Cognitive participation (who does the work?)

Collective action (how do people work together to get the work done?)

Reflexive monitoring (how are the effects of the work understood?)

Manalili and Santana [33]: implementing ePREMs for quality improvement in primary care

PROM paper or electronic patient-reported outcome measure, ePROM electronic patient-reported outcome measure, and ePREM electronic patient-reported experience measure