Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Making Sense of Implementation Theories, Models, and Frameworks

  • Chapter
  • First Online:
Implementation Science 3.0

Abstract

This chapter presents a taxonomy that distinguishes among different categories of theories, models and frameworks used in implementation science. The chapter describes five categories of theoretical approaches that achieve three overarching aims: process models, which are aimed at describing and/or guiding the process of translating research into practice; determinant frameworks, classic theories and implementation theories, which are aimed at understanding and/or explaining what influences implementation outcomes; and evaluation frameworks, which are aimed at evaluating implementation. Awareness of how the approaches differ is important to facilitate the selection of relevant approaches. Most determinant frameworks provide limited “how-to” support for carrying out implementation endeavours since the determinants usually are too generic to provide sufficient detail for guiding implementation. And while the relevance of addressing barriers and enablers to implementation is mentioned in many process models, these models do not identify or structure specific determinants associated with implementation success.

Reprinted from Nilsen, P. (2015). Making sense of implementation theories, models and frameworks. Implementation Science, 10(53). Copyright © Nilsen.; licensee BioMed Central. 2015. Some modifications to the text were made. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-015-0242-0, licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

Log in via an institution
Chapter
USD 29.95
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
eBook
USD 69.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Hardcover Book
USD 89.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Durable hardcover edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

References

  • Ajzen, I. (2005). Attitudes, personality and behavior. Maidenhead, England: Open University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ashton, C. M., Khan, M. M., Johnson, M. L., Walder, A., Stanberry, E., Beyth, R. J., … Wray, N. P. (2007). A quasi-experimental test of an intervention to increase the use of thiazide-based treatment regimens for people with hypertension. Implementation Science, 2(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-2-5

  • Aubert, B. A., & Hamel, G. (2001). Adoption of smart cards in the medical sector: The Canadian experience. Social Science & Medicine, 53(7), 879–894. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0277-9536(00)00388-9

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 84(2), 191–215. https://doi.org/10.1037//0033-295x.84.2.191

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bandura, A. (1986). Social foundations of thought and action a social cognitive theory. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.

    Google Scholar 

  • Benner, P. E. (1984). From novice to expert: Excellence and power in clinical nursing practice. Menlo Park, CA: Addison-Wesley.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Bhattacharyya, O., Reeves, S., Garfinkel, S., & Zwarenstein, M. (2006). Designing theoretically-informed implementation interventions: Fine in theory, but evidence of effectiveness in practice is needed. Implementation Science, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-1-5

  • Blasé, K. A., Van Dyke, M., Fixsen, D. L., & Bailey, F. W. (2012). Implementation science: Key concepts, themes and evidence for practitioners in educational psychology. In B. Kelly & D. F. Perkins (Eds.), Handbook of implementation science for psychology in education (pp. 13–34). Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Bluedorn, A. C., & Evered, R. D. (1980). Middle range theory and the strategies of theory construction. In C. C. Pinder & L. F. Moore (Eds.), Middle range theory and the study of organizations (pp. 19–32). Boston, MA: Martinus Nijhoff.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Brownson, R. C., Colditz, G. A., & Proctor, E. K. (2012). Dissemination and implementation research in health: Translating science to practice. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Broyles, L., Rodriguez, K. L., Kraemer, K. L., Sevick, M., Price, P. A., & Gordon, A. J. (2012). A qualitative study of anticipated barriers and facilitators to the implementation of nurse-delivered alcohol screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment for hospitalized patients in a Veterans Affairs medical center. Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, 7(1), 7. https://doi.org/10.1186/1940-0640-7-7

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bunge, M. (1967). Scientific research 1 (The search for system). Berlin, Germany: Springer.

    Google Scholar 

  • Cacioppo, J. T. (2004). Common sense, intuition, and theory in personality and social psychology. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 8(2), 114–122. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15327957pspr0802_4

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cairney, P. (2012). Understanding public policy: Theories and issues. Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire, England: Palgrave Macmillan.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). About knowledge translation. [http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/29418.html]. Accessed 18 Dec 2014.

  • Cane, J., O’Connor, D., & Michie, S. (2012). Validation of the theoretical domains framework for use in behaviour change and implementation research. Implementation Science, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-7-37

  • Carpiano, R. M. (2006). A guide and glossary on postpositivist theory building for population health. Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, 60(7), 564–570. https://doi.org/10.1136/jech.2004.031534

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chaudoir, S. R., Dugan, A. G., & Barr, C. H. (2013). Measuring factors affecting implementation of health innovations: A systematic review of structural, organizational, provider, patient, and innovation level measures. Implementation Science, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-8-22

  • Cochrane, L. J., Olson, C. A., Murray, S., Dupuis, M., Tooman, T., & Hayes, S. (2007). Gaps between knowing and doing: Understanding and assessing the barriers to optimal health care. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 27(2), 94–102. https://doi.org/10.1002/chp.106

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Connell, L. A., McMahon, N. E., Redfern, J., Watkins, C. L., & Eng, J. J. (2015). Development of a behaviour change intervention to increase upper limb exercise in stroke rehabilitation. Implementation Science, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-015-0223-3

  • Cronin, P., Ryan, F., & Coughlan, M. (2008). Undertaking a literature review: A step-by-step approach. British Journal of Nursing, 17(1), 38–43. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2008.17.1.28059

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cunningham, F. C., Ranmuthugala, G., Plumb, J., Georgiou, A., Westbrook, J. I., & Braithwaite, J. (2011). Health professional networks as a vector for improving healthcare quality and safety: A systematic review. BMJ Quality & Safety, 21(3), 239–249. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjqs-2011-000187

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Damschroder, L. J., Aron, D. C., Keith, R. E., Kirsh, S. R., Alexander, J. A., & Lowery, J. C. (2009). Fostering implementation of health services research findings into practice: A consolidated framework for advancing implementation science. Implementation Science, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-4-50

  • Damschroder, L. J., & Lowery, J. C. (2013). Evaluation of a large-scale weight management program using the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR). Implementation Science, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-8-51

  • Davies, P., Walker, A., & Grimshaw, J. (2003). Theories of behavior change in studies of guideline implementation. Proceedings of the British Psychological Society, 11, 120.

    Google Scholar 

  • Davis, S. M., Peterson, J. C., Helfrich, C. D., & Cunningham-Sabo, L. (2007). Introduction and conceptual model for utilization of prevention research. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 33(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2007.04.004

  • DiMaggio, P. J., & Powell, W. W. (1991). The new institutionalism and organizational analysis. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Dopson, S., & Fitzgerald, L. (2005). The active role of context. In S. Dopson & L. Fitzgerald (Eds.), Knowledge to action? Evidence-based health care in context (pp. 79–103). New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

    Chapter  Google Scholar 

  • Dubin, R. (1969). Theory building. New York, NY: Free Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Durlak, J. A., & Dupre, E. P. (2008). Implementation matters: A review of research on the influence of implementation on program outcomes and the factors affecting implementation. American Journal of Community Psychology, 41(3–4), 327–350. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10464-008-9165-0

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Dyson, J., Lawton, R., Jackson, C., & Cheater, F. (2013). Development of a theory-based instrument to identify barriers and levers to best hand hygiene practice among healthcare practitioners. Implementation Science, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-8-111

  • Eccles, M. P., Grimshaw, J., Walker, A., Johnston, M., & Pitts, N. (2005). Changing the behavior of healthcare professionals: The use of theory in promoting the uptake of research findings. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, 58(2), 107–112. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclinepi.2004.09.002

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Eccles, M. P., Hrisos, S., Francis, J. J., Steen, N., Bosch, M., & Johnston, M. (2009). Can the collective intentions of individual professionals within healthcare teams predict the team’s performance: Developing methods and theory. Implementation Science, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-4-24

  • Eccles, M. P., & Mittman, B. S. (2006). Welcome to implementation science. Implementation Science, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-1-1

  • Epstein, S. (1994). Integration of the cognitive and the psychodynamic unconscious. American Psychologist, 49(8), 709–724. https://doi.org/10.1037//0003-066x.49.8.709

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Estabrooks, C. A., Derksen, L., Winther, C., Lavis, J. N., Scott, S. D., Wallin, L., & Profetto-McGrath, J. (2008). The intellectual structure and substance of the knowledge utilization field: A longitudinal author co-citation analysis, 1945 to 2004. Implementation Science, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-3-49

  • Estabrooks, C. A., Squires, J. E., Cummings, G. G., Birdsell, J. M., & Norton, P. G. (2009). Development and assessment of the Alberta context tool. BMC Health Services Research BMC Health Serv Res, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6963-9-234

  • Estabrooks, C. A., Thompson, D. S., Lovely, J. J., & Hofmeyer, A. (2006). A guide to knowledge translation theory. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 26(1), 25–36. https://doi.org/10.1002/chp.48

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ferlie, E. B., & Shortell, S. M. (2001). Improving the quality of health care in the United Kingdom and the United States: A framework for change. The Milbank Quarterly, 79(2), 281–315. https://doi.org/10.1111/1468-0009.00206

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Field, B., Booth, A., Ilott, I., & Gerrish, K. (2014). Using the knowledge to action framework in practice: A citation analysis and systematic review. Implementation Science, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-014-0172-2

  • Finch, T. L., Rapley, T., Girling, M., Mair, F. S., Murray, E., Treweek, S., … May, C. R. (2013). Improving the normalization of complex interventions: Measure development based on normalization process theory (NoMAD): Study protocol. Implementation Science, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-8-43

  • Fishbein, M., & Ajzen, I. (1975). Belief, attitude, intention, and behaviour. New York, NY: John Wiley.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fixsen, D. L., Naoom, S. F., Blasé, K. A., Friedman, R. M., & Wallace, F. (2005). Implementation research: A synthesis of the literature. Tampa, FL: National Implementation Research Network.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fleming, A., Bradley, C., Cullinan, S., & Byrne, S. (2014). Antibiotic prescribing in long-term care facilities: A qualitative, multidisciplinary investigation. BMJ Open, 4(11). https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006442

  • Fletcher, G. J. (1984). Psychology and common sense. American Psychologist, 39(3), 203–213. https://doi.org/10.1037//0003-066x.39.3.203

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Flottorp, S. A., Oxman, A. D., Krause, J., Musila, N. R., Wensing, M., Godycki-Cwirko, M., … Eccles, M. P. (2013). A checklist for identifying determinants of practice: A systematic review and synthesis of frameworks and taxonomies of factors that prevent or enable improvements in healthcare professional practice. Implementation Science, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-8-35

  • Foy, R., Maclennan, G., Grimshaw, J., Penney, G., Campbell, M., & Grol, R. (2002). Attributes of clinical recommendations that influence change in practice following audit and feedback. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, 55(7), 717–722. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0895-4356(02)00403-1

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Frankfort-Nachmias, C., & Nachmias, D. (1996). Research methods in the social sciences (p. 1996). London, England: Arnold.

    Google Scholar 

  • French, B., Thomas, L. H., Baker, P., Burton, C. R., Pennington, L., & Roddam, H. (2009). What can management theories offer evidence-based practice? A comparative analysis of measurement tools for organisational context. Implementation Science, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-4-28

  • Gabbay, J. (2004). Evidence based guidelines or collectively constructed “mindlines?” Ethnographic study of knowledge management in primary care. BMJ, 329(7473), 1013. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.329.7473.1013

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gagnon, M., Labarthe, J., Légaré, F., Ouimet, M., Estabrooks, C. A., Roch, G., … Grimshaw, J. (2011). Measuring organizational readiness for knowledge translation in chronic care. Implementation Science, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-6-72

  • Gifford, W., Davies, B., Edwards, N., Griffin, P., & Lybanon, V. (2007). Managerial leadership for nurses’ use of research evidence: An integrative review of the literature. Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing, 4(3), 126–145. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-6787.2007.00095.x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Glasgow, R. E., Vogt, T. M., & Boles, S. M. (1999). Evaluating the public health impact of health promotion interventions: The RE-AIM framework. American Journal of Public Health, 89(9), 1322–1327. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.89.9.1322

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Godin, G., Bélanger-Gravel, A., Eccles, M., & Grimshaw, J. (2008). Healthcare professionals’ intentions and behaviours: A systematic review of studies based on social cognitive theories. Implementation Science, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-3-36

  • Graham, I. D., Logan, J., Harrison, M. B., Straus, S. E., Tetroe, J., Caswell, W., & Robinson, N. (2006). Lost in knowledge translation: Time for a map? Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 26(1), 13–24. https://doi.org/10.1002/chp.47

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Graham, I. D., & Tetroe, J. (2007). Some theoretical underpinnings of knowledge translation. Academic Emergency Medicine, 14(11), 936–941. https://doi.org/10.1197/j.aem.2007.07.004

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Graham, I. D., Tetroe, J., & KT Theories Group. (2009). Planned action theories. In S. E. Straus, J. Tetroe, & I. D. Graham (Eds.), Knowledge translation in health care: Moving from evidence to practice (pp. 185–195). Chichester, UK: Wiley-Blackwell/BMJ.

    Google Scholar 

  • Green, L. W., Kreuter, M. W., & Green, L. W. (2005). Health program planning: An educational and ecological approach. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

    Google Scholar 

  • Greenhalgh, T., Robert, G., Bate, P., Macfarlane, F., & Kyriakidou, O. (2005). Diffusion of innovations in service organisations: A systematic literature review. Malden, MA: Blackwell.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Greenwald, A. G., Pratkanis, A. R., Leippe, M. R., & Baumgardner, M. H. (1986). Under what conditions does theory obstruct research progress? Psychological Review, 93(2), 216–229. https://doi.org/10.1037//0033-295x.93.2.216

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Grimshaw, J., McAuley, L. M., Bero, L. A., Grilli, R., Oxman, A. D., Ramsay, C., … Zwarenstein, M. (2003). Systematic reviews of effectiveness of quality improvement strategies and programmes. Quality and Safety in Health Care, 12(4), 298–303. https://doi.org/10.1136/qhc.12.4.298

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Grol, R., & Wensing, M. (2004). What drives change? Barriers to and incentives for achieving evidence-based practice. Medical Journal of Australia, 180, S57–S60.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Grol, R., Wensing, M., & Eccles, M. (2005). Improving patient care: The implementation of change in clinical practice. Edinburgh, Scotland: Elsevier Butterworth Heinemann.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gurses, A. P., Marsteller, J. A., Ozok, A. A., Xiao, Y., Owens, S., & Pronovost, P. J. (2010). Using an interdisciplinary approach to identify factors that affect cliniciansʼ compliance with evidence-based guidelines. Critical Care Medicine, 38(8 Suppl), S282–S291. https://doi.org/10.1097/ccm.0b013e3181e69e02

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hammond, K. R. (1981). Principles of organization in intuitive and analytical cognition. Ft. Belvoir, VA: Defense Technical Information Center.

    Google Scholar 

  • Helfrich, C. D., Damschroder, L. J., Hagedorn, H. J., Daggett, G. S., Sahay, A., Ritchie, M., … Stetler, C. B. (2010). A critical synthesis of literature on the promoting action on research implementation in health services (PARIHS) framework. Implementation Science, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-5-82

  • Holmes, B. J., Finegood, D. T., Riley, B. L., & Best, A. (2012). Systems thinking in dissemination and implementation research. In R. C. Brownson, G. A. Colditz, & E. K. Proctor (Eds.), Dissemination and implementation research in health (pp. 192–212). Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Huberman, M. (1994). Research utilization: The state of the art. Knowledge and Policy, 7(4), 13–33. https://doi.org/10.1007/bf02696290

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hunt, S. D. (1991). Modern marketing theory: Critical issues in the philosophy of marketing science. Cincinnati, OH: South-Western Publishing.

    Google Scholar 

  • ICEBeRG. (2006). Designing theoretically-informed implementation interventions. Implementation Science, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-1-4

  • Jacobs, S. R., Weiner, B. J., & Bunger, A. C. (2014). Context matters: Measuring implementation climate among individuals and groups. Implementation Science, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-9-46

  • Jacobson, N., Butterill, D., & Goering, P. (2003). Development of a framework for knowledge translation: Understanding user context. Journal of Health Services Research & Policy, 8(2), 94–99. https://doi.org/10.1258/135581903321466067

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Johnson, M., Jackson, R., Guillaume, L., Meier, P., & Goyder, E. (2010). Barriers and facilitators to implementing screening and brief intervention for alcohol misuse: A systematic review of qualitative evidence. Journal of Public Health, 33(3), 412–421. https://doi.org/10.1093/pubmed/fdq095

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jones, K. (2004). Mission drift in qualitative research, or moving toward a systematic review of qualitative studies, moving back to a more systematic narrative review. The Qualitative Report, 9, 95–112.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kajermo, K. N., Boström, A., Thompson, D. S., Hutchinson, A. M., Estabrooks, C. A., & Wallin, L. (2010). The BARRIERS scale – The barriers to research utilization scale: A systematic review. Implementation Science, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-5-32

  • Kitson, A. L., Harvey, G., & McCormack, B. (1998). Enabling the implementation of evidence based practice: A conceptual framework. Quality and Safety in Health Care, 7(3), 149–158. https://doi.org/10.1136/qshc.7.3.149

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kitson, A. L., Rycroft-Malone, J., Harvey, G., McCormack, B., Seers, K., & Titchen, A. (2008). Evaluating the successful implementation of evidence into practice using the PARiHS framework: Theoretical and practical challenges. Implementation Science, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-3-1

  • Klein, K. J., & Sorra, J. S. (1996). The challenge of innovation implementation. Academy of Management Review, 21(4), 1055–1080. https://doi.org/10.5465/amr.1996.9704071863

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Kuhn, T. S. (1970). The structure of scientific revolutions. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Landry, R., Amara, N., & Lamari, M. (2001). Climbing the ladder of research utilization: Evidence from social science research. Science Communication, 22(4), 396–422. https://doi.org/10.1177/1075547001022004003

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Leeman, J., Baernholdt, M., & Sandelowski, M. (2007). Developing a theory-based taxonomy of methods for implementing change in practice. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 58(2), 191–200. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2648.2006.04207.x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Légaré, F., Ratté, S., Gravel, K., & Graham, I. D. (2008). Barriers and facilitators to implementing shared decision-making in clinical practice: Update of a systematic review of health professionals’ perceptions. Patient Education and Counseling, 73(3), 526–535. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2008.07.018

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Logan, J., & Graham, I. (2010). The Ottawa Model of research use. In J. Rycroft-Malone & T. Bucknall (Eds.), Models and frameworks for implementing evidence-based practice: Linking evidence to action (pp. 83–108). Chichester, West Sussex, England: Wiley-Blackwell.

    Google Scholar 

  • Logan, J., & Graham, I. D. (1998). Toward a comprehensive interdisciplinary model of health care research use. Science Communication, 20(2), 227–246. https://doi.org/10.1177/1075547098020002004

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Majdzadeh, R., Sadighi, J., Nejat, S., Mahani, A. S., & Gholami, J. (2008). Knowledge translation for research utilization: Design of a knowledge translation model at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions, 28(4), 270–277. https://doi.org/10.1002/chp.193

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Martinez, R. G., Lewis, C. C., & Weiner, B. J. (2014). Instrumentation issues in implementation science. Implementation Science, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-014-0118-8

  • Mascia, D., & Cicchetti, A. (2011). Physician social capital and the reported adoption of evidence-based medicine: Exploring the role of structural holes. Social Science & Medicine, 72(5), 798–805. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2010.12.011

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • May, C. (2013). Towards a general theory of implementation. Implementation Science, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-8-18

  • May, C., & Finch, T. (2009). Implementing, embedding, and integrating practices: An outline of normalization process theory. Sociology, 43(3), 535–554. https://doi.org/10.1177/0038038509103208

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • May, C., Finch, T., Mair, F., Ballini, L., Dowrick, C., Eccles, M., … Heaven, B. (2007). Understanding the implementation of complex interventions in health care: The normalization process model. BMC Health Services Research, 7, 148. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6963-7-148

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • McCormack, B., McCarthy, G., Wright, J., & Coffey, A. (2009). Development and testing of the context assessment index (CAI). Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing, 6(1), 27–35. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-6787.2008.00130.x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • McEvoy, R., Ballini, L., Maltoni, S., O’Donnell, C. A., Mair, F. S., & Macfarlane, A. (2014). A qualitative systematic review of studies using the normalization process theory to research implementation processes. Implementation Science, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-9-2

  • Meijers, J. M., Janssen, M. A., Cummings, G. G., Wallin, L., Estabrooks, C. A., & Halfens, R. Y. (2006). Assessing the relationships between contextual factors and research utilization in nursing: Systematic literature review. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 55(5), 622–635. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2648.2006.03954.x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Melnyk, B. M., Fineout-Overholt, E., & Mays, M. Z. (2008). The evidence-based practice beliefs and implementation scales: Psychometric properties of two new instruments. Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing, 5(4), 208–216. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-6787.2008.00126.x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Meyers, D. C., Durlak, J. A., & Wandersman, A. (2012). The quality implementation framework: A synthesis of critical steps in the implementation process. American Journal of Community Psychology, 50(3–4), 462–480. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10464-012-9522-x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Michie, S., Abraham, C., Eccles, M. P., Francis, J. J., Hardeman, W., & Johnston, M. (2011). Strengthening evaluation and implementation by specifying components of behaviour change interventions: A study protocol. Implementation Science, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-6-10

  • Michie, S., Atkins, L., & West, R. (2014). The behaviour change wheel: A guide to designing interventions. Manchester, UK: Silverback.

    Google Scholar 

  • Michie, S., Johnston, M., Abraham, C., Lawton, R., Parker, D., & Walker, A. (2005). Making psychological theory useful for implementing evidence based practice: A consensus approach. Quality and Safety in Health Care, 14(1), 26–33. https://doi.org/10.1136/qshc.2004.011155

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Michie, S., Stralen, M. M., & West, R. (2011). The behaviour change wheel: A new method for characterising and designing behaviour change interventions. Implementation Science, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-6-42

  • Mitchell, S. A., Fisher, C. A., Hastings, C. E., Silverman, L. B., & Wallen, G. R. (2010). A thematic analysis of theoretical models for translational science in nursing: Mapping the field. Nursing Outlook, 58(6), 287–300. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2010.07.001

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mohr, D. C., Lukas, C. V., & Meterko, M. (2008). Predicting healthcare employees’ participation in an office redesign program: Attitudes, norms and behavioral control. Implementation Science, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-3-47

  • Murray, E., Treweek, S., Pope, C., Macfarlane, A., Ballini, L., Dowrick, C., … May, C. (2010). Normalisation process theory: A framework for developing, evaluating and implementing complex interventions. BMC Medicine, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1741-7015-8-63

  • Nilsen, P., Roback, K., Broström, A., & Ellström, P. (2012). Creatures of habit: Accounting for the role of habit in implementation research on clinical behaviour change. Implementation Science, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-7-53

  • Nutley, S. M., Walter, I., & Davies, H. T. (2007). Using evidence: How research can inform public services. Bristol, UK: Policy Press.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Orlikowski, W. J. (1996). Improvising organizational transformation over time: A situated change perspective. Information Systems Research, 7(1), 63–92. https://doi.org/10.1287/isre.7.1.63

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Osigweh Yg, C. A. B. (1989). Concept fallibility in organizational science. Academy of Management Review, 14(4), 579–594. https://doi.org/10.5465/amr.1989.4308390

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ouellette, J. A., & Wood, W. (1998). Habit and intention in everyday life: The multiple processes by which past behavior predicts future behavior. Psychological Bulletin, 124(1), 54–74. https://doi.org/10.1037//0033-2909.124.1.54

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Oxman, A. D., Fretheim, A., & Flottorp, S. (2005). The OFF theory of research utilization. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, 58(2), 113–116. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclinepi.2004.10.002

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Oxman, A. D., Thomson, M. A., Davis, D. A., & Haynes, R. B. (1995). No magic bullets: A systematic review of 102 trials of interventions to improve professional practice. CMAJ, 153, 1423–1431.

    Google Scholar 

  • Parchman, M. L., Scoglio, C. M., & Schumm, P. (2011). Understanding the implementation of evidence-based care: A structural network approach. Implementation Science, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-6-14

  • Parmelli, E., Flodgren, G., Beyer, F., Baillie, N., Schaafsma, M. E., & Eccles, M. P. (2011). The effectiveness of strategies to change organisational culture to improve healthcare performance: A systematic review. Implementation Science, 6(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-6-33

  • Phillips, C. J., Marshall, A. P., Chaves, N. J., Lin, I. B., Loy, C. T., Rees, G., … Michie, S. (2015). Experiences of using theoretical domains framework across diverse clinical environments: A qualitative study. Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, 8, 139–146. https://doi.org/10.2147/JMDH.S78458

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Plsek, P. E., & Greenhalgh, T. (2001). Complexity science: The challenge of complexity in health care. BMJ, 323(7313), 625–628. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.323.7313.625

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Praveen, D., Patel, A., Raghu, A., Clifford, G. D., Maulik, P. K., Abdul, A. M., … Peiris, D. (2014). SMARTHealth India: Development and field evaluation of a mobile clinical decision support system for cardiovascular diseases in rural India. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 2(4). https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.3568

  • Proctor, E., Silmere, H., Raghavan, R., Hovmand, P., Aarons, G., Bunger, A., … Hensley, M. (2010). Outcomes for implementation research: Conceptual distinctions, measurement challenges, and research agenda. Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research, 38(2), 65–76. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10488-010-0319-7

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Pronovost, P. J., Berenholtz, S. M., & Needham, D. M. (2008). Translating evidence into practice: A model for large scale knowledge translation. BMJ, 337. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.a1714

  • Rabin, B. A., & Brownson, R. C. (2012). Developing the terminology for dissemination and implementation research. In R. C. Brownson, G. A. Colditz, & E. K. Proctor (Eds.), Dissemination and implementation research in health (pp. 23–51). New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Reynolds, P. D. (1971). A primer in theory construction. Indianapolis, IN: Bobbs-Merrill.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rogers, E. M. (2003). Diffusion of innovations (5th ed.). New York, NY: Free Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rycroft-Malone, J. (2010). Promoting action on research implementation in health services (PARIHS). In J. Rycroft-Malone & T. Bucknall (Eds.), Models and frameworks for implementing evidence-based practice: Linking evidence to action (pp. 10–136). Chichester, West Sussex, England: Wiley-Blackwell.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rycroft-Malone, J., & Bucknall, T. (2010a). Theory, frameworks, and models: Laying down the groundwork. In J. Rycroft-Malone & T. Bucknall (Eds.), Models and frameworks for implementing evidence-based practice: Linking evidence to action (pp. 23–50). Chichester, West Sussex, England: Wiley-Blackwell.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rycroft-Malone, J., & Bucknall, T. (2010b). Analysis and synthesis of models and frameworks. In J. Rycroft-Malone & T. Bucknall (Eds.), Models and frameworks for implementing evidence-based practice: Linking evidence to action (pp. 223–245). Chichester, West Sussex, England: Wiley-Blackwell.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rycroft-Malone, J., & Bucknall, T. (2010c). Models and frameworks for implementing evidence-based practice: Linking evidence to action. Chichester, West Sussex, England: Wiley-Blackwell.

    Google Scholar 

  • Sabatier, P. A. (1999). Theories of the policy process. Boulder, CO: Westview Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Sales, A., Smith, J., Curran, G., & Kochevar, L. (2006). Models, strategies, and tools: Theory in implementing evidence-based findings into health care practice. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 21(S2). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-006-0274-x

  • Scott, S. D., Plotnikoff, R. C., Karunamuni, N., Bize, R., & Rodgers, W. (2008). Factors influencing the adoption of an innovation: An examination of the uptake of the Canadian Heart Health Kit (HHK). Implementation Science, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-3-41

  • Scott, W. R. (1995). Institutions and organizations. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

    Google Scholar 

  • Stetler, C. B. (1994). Refinement of the Stetler/Marram model for application of research findings to practice. Nursing Outlook, 42(1), 15–25. https://doi.org/10.1016/0029-6554(94)90067-1

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Stetler, C. B. (2010). Stetler model. In J. Rycroft-Malone & T. Bucknall (Eds.), Models and frameworks for implementing evidence-based practice: Linking evidence to action (pp. 51–82). Chichester, West Sussex, England: Wiley-Blackwell.

    Google Scholar 

  • Stevens, K. R. (2013). The impact of evidence-based practice in nursing and the next big ideas. The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 18(2), 4.

    Google Scholar 

  • Straus, S. E., Tetroe, J., & Graham, I. D. (2009). Knowledge translation in health care: Moving from evidence to practice. Chichester, UK: Wiley-Blackwell/BMJ.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Tabak, R. G., Khoong, E. C., Chambers, D. A., & Brownson, R. C. (2012). Bridging research and practice: Models for dissemination and implementation research. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 43, 337–350.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Titler, M. G., Kleiber, C., Steelman, V., Goode, C., Rakel, B., Barry-Walker, J., … Buckwalter, K. (1994). Infusing research into practice to promote quality care. Nursing Research, 43(5). https://doi.org/10.1097/00006199-199409000-00009

  • Titler, M. G., Kleiber, C., Steelman, V. J., Rakel, B. A., Budreau, G., Everett, L. Q., … Goode, C. J. (2001). The Iowa Model of evidence-based practice to promote quality care. Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America, 13, 497–509.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Triandis, H. C. (1979). Values, attitudes, and interpersonal behaviour. In M. M. Page, & H. E. Howe (Eds.), (1980). Nebraska Symposium on Motivation, 1979: Beliefs, attitudes and values (pp. 195–259). Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska Press.

    Google Scholar 

  • Verplanken, B., & Aarts, H. (1999). Habit, attitude, and planned behaviour: Is habit an empty construct or an interesting case of goal-directed automaticity? European Review of Social Psychology, 10(1), 101–134. https://doi.org/10.1080/14792779943000035

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Verweij, L. M., Proper, K. I., Leffelaar, E. R., Weel, A. N., Nauta, A. P., Hulshof, C. T., & Mechelen, W. V. (2012). Barriers and facilitators to implementation of an occupational health guideline aimed at preventing weight gain among employees in the Netherlands. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 54(8), 954–960. https://doi.org/10.1097/jom.0b013e3182511c9f

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Völlink, T., Meertens, R., & Midden, C. J. (2002). Innovating ‘diffusion of innovation’ theory: Innovation characteristics and the intention of utility companies to adopt energy conservation interventions. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 22(4), 333–344. https://doi.org/10.1006/jevp.2001.0237

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wacker, J. (1998). A definition of theory: Research guidelines for different theory-building research methods in operations management. Journal of Operations Management, 16(4), 361–385. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0272-6963(98)00019-9

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Waldrop, M. M. (1992). Complexity: The emerging science at the edge of order and chaos. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster.

    Google Scholar 

  • Wallin, L., Ewald, U., Wikblad, K., Scott-Findlay, S., & Arnetz, B. B. (2006). Understanding work contextual factors: A short-cut to evidence-based practice? Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing, 3(4), 153–164. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-6787.2006.00067.x

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Walter, I., Nutley, S. M., Davies, H, T, O. (2003). Developing a taxonomy of interventions used to increase the impact of research. St. Andrews: University of St Andrews. Discussion Paper 3, Research Unit for Research Utilisation, University of St. Andrews.

    Google Scholar 

  • Weiner, B. J. (2009). A theory of organizational readiness for change. Implementation Science, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-4-67

  • Wensing, M., Wollersheim, H., & Grol, R. (2006). Organizational interventions to implement improvements in patient care: A structured review of reviews. Implementation Science, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-1-2

  • Wilson, K. M., Brady, T. J., Lesesne, C., & on behalf of the NCCDPHP Work Group on Translation. (2011). An organizing framework for translation in public health: The knowledge to action framework. Preventing Chronic Disease, 8, A46.

    Google Scholar 

  • Yano, E. M. (2008). The role of organizational research in implementing evidence-based practice: QUERI series. Implementation Science, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-3-29

  • Zahra, S. A., & George, G. (2002). Absorptive capacity: A review, reconceptualization, and extension. Academy of Management Review, 27(2), 185–203. https://doi.org/10.5465/amr.2002.6587995

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zardo, P., & Collie, A. (2014). Predicting research use in a public health policy environment: Results of a logistic regression analysis. Implementation Science, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-014-0142-8

Download references

Acknowledgments

I am grateful to Bianca Albers, Susanne Bernhardsson, Dean L. Fixsen, Karen Grimmer, Ursula Reichenpfader and Kerstin Roback for constructive comments on drafts of this chapter. Also, thanks are due to Margit Neher, Justin Presseau and Jeanette Wassar Kirk for their input.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden

    Per Nilsen

Authors
  1. Per Nilsen
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Per Nilsen .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. European Implementation Collaborative, Copenhagen, Denmark

    Bianca Albers

  2. Monash University, Clayton, Australia

    Aron Shlonsky

  3. Centre for Evidence and Implementation, Melbourne, Australia

    Robyn Mildon

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2020 Springer Nature Switzerland AG

About this chapter

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this chapter

Nilsen, P. (2020). Making Sense of Implementation Theories, Models, and Frameworks. In: Albers, B., Shlonsky, A., Mildon, R. (eds) Implementation Science 3.0. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-03874-8_3

Download citation

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-03874-8_3

  • Published:

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-030-03873-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-030-03874-8

  • eBook Packages: Social SciencesSocial Sciences (R0)

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Search

Navigation