Where to start?

One of the cornerstones of implementation science is the use of theory.

Unfortunately, the vast number of tools available in the implementation science toolkit can make it difficult to determine which is the most appropriate to address or frame a research question. There are dozens of theories, models, and frameworks used in implementation science that have been developed across a wide range of disciplines, and more are published each year.

Two recent reviews provide schemas to organize implementation science theories, models, and frameworks and narrow the range of choices:

Bridging research and practice: models for dissemination and implementation research (Tabak, Khoong, Chambers, & Brownson, 2013)
Tabak et al’s schema organizes 61 dissemination and implementation (D&I) models based on three variables: 1) construct flexibility, 2) focus on dissemination and/or implementation activities, and 3) socio-ecological framework level.

The authors argue that classification of a model based on these three variables will assist in selecting a model to inform D&I science study design and execution. For more information, check out this archived NCI webinar: Applying Models and Frameworks to D&I Research: An Overview & Analysis (Presenter: Dr. Rachel Tabak, Dr. Ted Skolarus)

Making sense of implementation theories, models, and frameworks (Nilsen, 2015)
Per Nilsen’s schema sorts implementation science tools into five categories: 1) process models, 2) determinants frameworks, 3) evaluation frameworks, 4) classic theories, and 5) implementation theories:

Below, we borrow from Nilsen’s schema to organize overviews of a selection of implementation science theories, models, and frameworks. In each overview, you will find links to additional resources.

Please note some journals will require subscriptions to access a linked article.