Participatory system dynamics in implementation science practice: a scoping review of methods, contexts and outcomes

This scoping review documents participatory system dynamics (PSD) applications in implementation science (IS) studies following a recent, increased integration of the two fields in the USA. It aims to illustrate 'how' and 'why' PSD modelling improves understanding of determinants of implementation outcomes for quality improvement.

We queried PubMed and PsycInfo for PSD, IS and their synonyms (community-based system dynamics or group model building, dissemination, quality improvement, translational research or knowledge translation). USA-based empirical studies were included when they described synchronous participatory activities to define a modelling problem over time. Studies were included when PSD was used as an implementation research method or implementation practice strategy. Fifty-eight studies on concept mapping were excluded, as were 65 intervention mapping studies. Nine articles remained after full-text review.

Most studies (n=7) investigated PSD itself as the intervention for understanding an implementation problem or use it as a tool to understand how to implement an evidence-based practice (n=4) or select an IS strategy (n=3). Most articles were case studies, investigating feasibility and knowledge translation during the preparation phase.

We recommend that implementation research and practice clarify whether PSD is used as a method to uncover contextual determinants or strategy to do so. PSD has strong potential to use enhanced participant buy-in and problem definition to understand 'how' implementation strategies account for cyclical and temporal determinants. Greater alignment between PSD activities, participatory theory, implementation phases and outcomes is needed to strengthen evaluation of PSD's applications in IS.

The protocol for this paper is listed in the UNC Libraries repository (https://cdr.lib.unc.edu/concern/scholarly_works/6682xg09r).