Implementation research assessment instruments: a webtool to identify, compare and select assessment instruments...

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Health Services Research
• Public Health

Background:

• Implementation science theories, models, and frameworks (TMFs) are crucial for evidence-based practice.
• Linking TMF constructs to assessment instruments is a significant challenge for researchers and practitioners.
• Existing repositories are fragmented, limited in scope, and lack comprehensive TMF linkage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the challenge of linking TMF constructs to assessment instruments.
• To expand the Dissemination and Implementation (D&I) Models Webtool with a user-centered, construct-linked assessment section.
• To create a publicly accessible, continually updated resource for implementation science assessments.

Main Methods:

• A user-centered, iterative process was employed to redesign the webtool's Assess section.
• Instrument metadata were refined through expert engagement, resulting in 38 finalized fields.
• Priority instruments were selected and abstracted for diversity in modality, phase, setting, audience, and relevance; usability testing informed refinements.

Main Results:

• Phase 1 includes 51 instruments linked to relevant TMFs and constructs, spanning quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods.
• Instruments cover various formats (surveys, interviews, worksheets) and encompass preimplementation, implementation, and sustainment phases.
• The tool offers multipath navigation, search/filtering by metadata, and guidance for selecting and applying implementation science assessments.

Conclusions:

• The D&I Models Webtool's Assess section provides a curated, public, construct-linked resource for operationalizing TMFs.
• This tool supports consistent, theory-driven assessment in implementation science across diverse modalities and contexts.
• The resource will be continually updated and expanded based on community input.