Implementing a complex innovation into workplace operations: The case of work ability support for indoor...

BackgroundMultifactorial health complaints associated with indoor work environments can impact on employees' work ability and arouse controversies in the workplace. Traditionally, solutions have centered on building-related factors, however supporting work ability requires a multi-perspective approach.ObjectiveThis study explored relevant perspectives for implementing a multi-perspective work ability support model. This model represents a complex intervention within the intricate context of indoor environment-related health complaints in the workplace.MethodsWe used recordings and notes from the workshops of a project aiming to implement the work ability support model in three organizations and used reflexive thematic analysis. We developed overarching themes from the data, using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) as an interpretative lens to structure the findings into implementation perspectives.ResultsWe developed four overarching themes encompassing all CFIR domains and most constructs: (1) the acknowledgment and validation of employees' emotions and experiences as a solution, (2) reliable information and detailed facts as the key to managing work ability support, (3) existing tools as a means to normalization and collaboration, and (4) supervisors as central actors in a challenging task.ConclusionsImplementing a work ability support model regarding complex phenomena affecting work ability, such as indoor environment-related health complaints, requires identifying and addressing the potential tensions and controversies underlying the model and requires consideration of the context. Viewing communication as a process of developing shared understanding and co-constructing knowledge throughout the implementation process and all its dimensions can be beneficial for the implementation.