From Creative Engagement to Illustrative Insights: Exploring the Role of Design Probes for Implementation Research

To advance implementation of evidence-based interventions in healthcare, research teams need methods that center engagement, inclusivity, and creativity. We address this challenge by exploring design probes for implementation research. Design probes are packaged materials given to users that prompt them to asynchronously capture data about their context and experience, subsequently reflecting upon aspects of that data salient to the topic of study. This study had three objectives: (1) explore the potential utility of design probes in implementation research, (2) describe researcher and participant experiences with design probes, and (3) generate considerations for leveraging design probes to enhance engagement in implementation research.

We used a multi-informant, multimethod approach. For objective 1, we undertook a literature scan and elicited expert (n = 8) input to explore how, when, and why design probes could be used in implementation research. For objective 2, we pilot tested the method with practitioners (n = 22) in an implementation research project exploring barriers and facilitators to implementing measurement-based care in community mental health settings. For objective 3, we sought feedback about the method in focus groups with youth (n = 8) and practitioners (n = 9).

The literature scan and expert input identified five scenarios in which design probes may enhance implementation research, including enhancing engagement among implementation partners, accessing hard-to-reach populations, and identifying partner-centered implementation strategies. Our pilot experience demonstrated that design probes are feasible for implementation research from the perspective of research teams and participants. Focus group findings indicated that design probes hold promise for engaging youth but may have variable appeal and utility with practitioners.

We explore design probes for implementation research at a time of critical need for partner engagement. Future research will examine feasibility and value of design probes in a range of implementation initiatives.