Pathways to Program Success: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) of Communities Putting Prevention to Work Case...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Organizational Capacity
• Program Implementation

Background:

• Organizational capacity is crucial for public health program success.
• Understanding the elements of capacity can optimize resource allocation and program outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the key elements of organizational capacity that support successful public health program implementation.
• To identify combinations of capacity factors leading to the completion of public health objectives.

Main Methods:

• Utilized crisp set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA).
• Analyzed case study and quantitative data from the Communities Putting Prevention to Work (CPPW) program.
• Included data from 22 CPPW awardee programs focused on tobacco control and obesity prevention.

Main Results:

• Two primary combinations of capacity elements were associated with completing approximately 60% of work plan objectives.
• Combination 1: Experience in public health implementation coupled with a history of partner collaboration.
• Combination 2: Lack of implementation experience compensated by strong leadership support.

Conclusions:

• Awardees demonstrate varied capacity levels, with different combinations enabling objective completion.
• Lack of certain capacity elements can be overcome by strategic hiring, engaging new partners, or leveraging existing strengths.
• Findings inform funders and practitioners on assembling capacity for more effective public health initiatives.