Powell, B.J., Waltz, T.J., Chinman, M.J., Damschroder, L.J., Smith, J.L., Matthieu, M.M., Proctor, E.K., & Kirchner, J.E. (2015). A refined compilation of implementation strategies: Results from the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) project. Implementation Science, 10(1), 209. PMCID: PMC4328074.
Implementation strategies are defined as methods and techniques to assist with adopting, implementing, or sustaining new clinical programs. Previous literature on implementation strategies lacked consistency in definitions, and adequate details for replication. This study sought to enhance a previous compilation of implementation strategies using a mixed methods approach. Purposive sampling was used to compile a panel of 71 implementation science experts in the United States and Canada. Using a modified Delphi Process, the experts participated in three rounds of web-based surveys and polling to generate a set of approved implementation strategies and terminology. Ultimately, the experts expressed concerns with 31% of the original terminology, and agreed upon 69% of the terms and definitions. The expert panel was able to ultimately come to a consensus on 73 unique implementation strategies.