Implementation Support Skills: Findings From a Systematic Integrative Review

Abstract

Purpose: Skills in selecting and designing strategies for implementing research-supported interventions (RSIs) within specific local contexts are important for progressing a wider RSI adoption and application in human and social services. This also applies to a particular role in implementation, the implementation support practitioner (ISP). This study examines which strategies have been reported as being used by ISPs across multiple bodies of research on implementation support and how these strategies were applied in concrete practice settings. Methods: A systematic integrative review was conducted. Data analysis utilized the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change compilation of implementation strategies. Results: Studies reported on 18 implementation strategies commonly used by different ISPs, who require mastery in selecting, operationalizing, and detailing these. Two further strategies not included in the ERIC compilation could be identified. Discussion: Given the use of primarily more feasible implementation support strategies among ISPs, their potential as agents of change may be underutilized.