Development of the Guide to Disseminating Research (GuiDiR): A consolidated framework

Area of Science:

• Knowledge Translation
• Health Research Dissemination
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Less than one-third of research evidence is translated into policy or practice.
• Effective knowledge translation requires successful dissemination, adoption, and implementation.
• Existing models offer limited guidance on dissemination strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically develop a consolidated framework for evidence-based research dissemination.
• To provide clear steps and activities for effective dissemination of research findings.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review of dissemination and implementation models and webtools was conducted.
• A prototype framework was synthesized and refined through expert and end-user workshops.
• Framework eligibility required models to address message awareness, audience targeting, or communication tailoring.

Main Results:

• The Guide to Disseminating Research (GuiDiR) framework was developed, comprising five key steps.
• GuiDiR includes identifying audiences/partners, engaging partners, identifying barriers/enablers, creating messages, and disseminating/evaluating.
• No single existing model encompassed all identified dissemination steps and activities.

Conclusions:

• GuiDiR unifies and harmonizes dissemination components from various models and frameworks.
• The framework provides a clear, accessible structure for evidence-based dissemination strategies.
• GuiDiR assists researchers, funders, and practitioners in executing effective dissemination.