Implementation Research Toolkit
Implementation research (IR) is conducted within health systems and community settings, removed from the controlled settings associated with other types of scientific research. It is an ongoing process that provides continuous feedback of results back to the health system, facilitating adaptation of services and interventions. So, by its nature, IR is adaptive. People may not come to work; the rains may impact access of people to services; delivery of key materials may be delayed. IR teams must be willing and able to adapt their projects to address such real-life likelihoods.
The second edition Implementation Research Toolkit is designed to help people learn and adapt a standard process that leads to results. It is now available with options for downloading and printing individual modules.
Users of the Toolkit should have elementary awareness of IR-related principles and approaches. Those without this pre-existing knowledge are strongly encouraged to take the TDR Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on Implementation Research.
The IR Toolkit allows teams to:
• Apply a structured process to identify known bottlenecks and barriers (the ‘problem’) in the health system.
• Contextualize the problem. • Identify and engage relevant stakeholders.
• Formulate appropriate research questions.
• Determine the applicable study design.
• Articulate a proposal to help leverage required resources.
• Implement and monitor the research in a robust and rigorous manner.
• Feed the solutions/adaptations back into the health system.
• Communicate and advocate effectively throughout the IR process