Implementing research is about using the research. For example, working in real world situations such as policy and practice. It involves identifying the target group of people and bringing the research to life specifically for them.
- When evaluating research implementation, ask questions such as:
- Will the target group of people accept it?
- Will the target group of people adopt it?
- Will it be appropriate for the target group of people adopt it?
- Will this project be feasible to carry out? For example, do we have all of the resources?
- Will this project be sustainable to carry out? For example, will it work long term? Will people get tired of it).
- What kind of coverage will this project gain?
- How much will it cost? Is it within budget?
Ways to implement research?
1. Identify appropriate policies and interventions?
2. Pilot the policy or interventions
3. Evaluate the implementation
4. Scale up the policy or intervention as needed
What do researchers do?
- Identify who the target groups are
- Identify key stakeholders and their roles
- What is the main research question?
- How will researchers design this study?
- What theory of change will support this study design?
- What is the program?
- How will researchers evaluate this study?
A recent BEAT-CKD workshop with patients, caregivers and health professionals identified strategies for patient and caregiver involvement in the implementation of CKD research. These include building engagement and familiarity, and harnessing the voices of consumers in advocacy. You can read the full report here.
Further resources:
- Read more about how to conduct implementation research here.