Implementation process evaluation of an ergonomic train the trainer program: How to learn from mechanisms and the...

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Occupational Ergonomics
• Process Evaluation

Background:

• Analyzing the temporal structure of processes is key in implementation process evaluation.
• Capturing this temporal structure in data analysis presents a methodological challenge, particularly for workplace ergonomic interventions.
• Existing literature on this methodological challenge is scarce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform an implementation process evaluation of an ergonomic train the trainer program.
• To incorporate the temporal structure of processes into the evaluation.
• To develop a method for qualitative data analysis that accounts for temporal dynamics.

Main Methods:

• A three-stage qualitative data analysis strategy was employed.
• Stage 1: Producing a timeline of the implemented intervention.
• Stages 2 & 3: Identifying influential factors and determinant mechanisms (sequences of factors influencing implementation).

Main Results:

• The method successfully identified six determinant mechanisms within the intervention's timeline.
• Obstacles and levers were revealed as sequences of interrelated causes and consequences, not isolated factors.
• This approach provided a dynamic understanding of the implementation process.

Conclusions:

• The developed method effectively captures the temporal structure of implementation processes.
• Understanding determinant mechanisms as sequences offers practical insights for intervention success.
• Recommendations are provided for practitioners and organizations to improve intervention preparedness and achieve objectives.