Table 1 Summary of expectations of Implementation Science and Implementation Science Communications
General expectations | Specific for Implementation Science | Specific for Implementation Science Communications | |
|---|---|---|---|
Theories and frameworks | Convincing rationale, based on comprehensive literature review | New, elaborated theories and frameworks of broad applicability | New concepts and theoretical perspectives and frameworks with broad or narrow applicability |
Systematic reviews | Recent systematic literature search | Analytical depth and broad generalizability | Descriptive analysis or a narrower focus |
Outcome evaluations | Focus on observable effects of implementation interventions | Randomized controlled trials and related quasi-experimental designs | Broader range of evaluation designs |
Process evaluations | Related to implementation interventions of known effectiveness | Analytical depth and broad generalizability | Descriptive analysis or a narrower focus |
Economic evaluations | Focus on the efficiency of implementation interventions | Cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit studies | Broader range of economic designs, including cost analyses |
Implementation intervention development, pilot and feasibility studies | Focus on implementation interventions | – | Use of systematic methods and empirical research |
Qualitative and mixed-methods studies | Chosen method matches with the focus of the study | Orientation on theory development, use of rigorous methods | Broader range of designs and methods to test theories |
Quantitative observational studies | – | Study is guided by theory, use of advanced data analysis | Broader range of designs, including more pragmatic approaches |
Validation studies | Comprehensive report of development and validation of measures | New measures | New, adapted, or translated measures |
Study protocols | Funding from competitive funding programs, peer-reviewed | Multi-center randomized trials, and related designs | Broader range of study designs |
Education on implementation science | Includes evaluation or other empirical research | Programs of substantial size and continuity | Broader range of educational programs |
Methodology papers | Demonstration of method on study that is in scope of the journals | – | – |
Commentaries and debates | Well-embedded in the implementation science literature | Potentially high impact on the field because of innovation or priority | Contribution with moderate impact or a narrower focus |
Short reports | Comprehensive description despite shortness | – | – |