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

Implementation science theories, models, and frameworks (TMFs) are central to rigorous, theory-informed research and practice; however, linking TMF constructs to appropriate assessment instruments is challenging for many users. Existing repositories have been valuable but are fragmented, vary in accessibility, and are often limited in scope, modality, and TMF linkage. To address this gap, we expanded the Dissemination and Implementation (D&I) Models Webtool.

Using a user-centered, expert-informed, iterative process, we redesigned the webtool's Assess section into a public, construct-linked tool. We first identified and refined a set of instrument metadata (characteristics) through reviews of prior repositories and multistage expert engagement (subject matter experts and an external advisory board). Each candidate metadata field was rated for usefulness and feasibility, culminating in 38 finalized fields. We then purposefully selected and abstracted priority instruments to ensure diversity across modalities (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed), implementation phase, setting, audience, and equity/policy relevance. Abstraction followed a consensus approach with quality checks and regular reconciliation. Usability testing with intended users informed content, navigation, and functionality refinements.

Phase 1 includes 51 instruments linked to relevant TMFs and constructs. Instruments span quantitative (n = 33), qualitative (n = 14), and mixed-method (n = 4) formats. Common types include surveys (n = 31), interviews (n = 6), and worksheets (n = 3). Coverage encompasses preimplementation, implementation, and sustainment phases; varied clinical and public health settings; multiple priority user groups; and equity- and policy-relevant tools. The tool provides multipath navigation (by instrument, construct, or model), search and filtering using key metadata, and guidance for selecting and applying Implementation Science (IS) assessments.

The Assess section of the D&I Models Webtool offers a curated, publicly available, continually updated, construct-linked tool that operationalizes TMFs through concrete measurement options across modalities and contexts. This resource supports more consistent, theory-driven assessment in IS and will continue to expand through iterative updates and community input.