Implementation science is the “scientific study of methods to promote the systematic uptake of research findings and other evidence-based practices into routine practice” (Eccles & Mitman, 2006). Put simply, implementation science helps close the research-to-practice gap by zeroing in on how, why, and when things (i.e., programs and interventions) work in the real world. Implementation science methods and frameworks allow us to investigate factors that help or hinder successful implementation of programs, interventions, and emerging practices and subsequently develop and test strategies to enhance dissemination and implementation (i.e., implementation strategies).

Why we use implementation science

Interventions that work well in research settings can be difficult to implement in practice. This is especially true for complex interventions that span multiple organizations or systems, such as collaborations between behavioral health providers, criminal legal agencies, healthcare organizations, and community partners. These initiatives often require organizations with different priorities, policies, and resources to work together toward a shared goal. In criminal legal settings, this complexity is magnified by the inherent tension between the mandates of public safety and clinical care (e.g., requiring healthcare delivery to adapt to institutional security protocol). 

How we use implementation science

We use implementation science methods and frameworks across our research and evaluation projects, from emerging or innovative practices to evidence-based practices (EBPs). We use these methods to guide our work with local, state, and national partners to evaluate and improve the implementation of evidence-based programs and system-level initiatives.  We work directly with local and state organizations and agencies to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation, understand local needs and priorities, and develop or tailor implementation strategies that fit the unique context of their organization and community. 

Learn more about implementation science