Implementation Development Workshop
The Implementation Development Workshop (IDW) is usually a half-day event at SIRC’s biennial conference, where SIRC members are invited to present “works in development” to receive expert feedback from colleagues. This invited meeting focuses on maximizing the methodology of implementation projects (planned or in-progress) as well as research studies (at proposal or early stages) as well as building collaboration between IDW participants. This unique format is based on the Behavioral Research in Diabetes Group Exchange (BRIDGE) model used by the Psycho-Social Aspects of Diabetes research group.
SIRC members—including investigators, practitioners, and students—who would like feedback on a project or proposal in development will have 45 minutes, ~15 of which are for presenting their project (without technology/no power point) and ~30 of which are for receiving feedback coordinated by the facilitator. The presenter will prepare in advance a 1-page summary of their project and three questions they would like to have addressed.
The meeting follows a unique facilitated format that facilitates participation from all members and prevents a small group of participants or enthusiastic discussion of one element of the project from taking over the discussion. A note-taker will record the feedback so the presenter can be actively engaged in the discussion. Further, all participants are asked to provide written feedback on the presenter’s three questions if they did not get a chance or chose not to share verbally.
The IDWs can also be conducted virtually (typically scheduled for 90 minutes). The online format has increased the accessibility and frequency of this resource.
We welcome a range of implementation and implementation research topics for IDWs. We especially encourage work in progress presentations and participation from practitioners and those involving international and socio-culturally diverse populations and settings. However, presentations for the IDW should be on works in development where feedback can (a) have a helpful and substantial impact on the developing project or proposal and (b) lead to a useful discussion of cutting-edge issues in implementation research.
For more information on IDWs or to request a virtual IDW, please do not hesitate to contact us at sircimplementation@gmail.com.
Evidence
Like the BRIDGE model, the IDW has been very successful in promoting the work of presenters, informing all the participants about key and cutting-edge issues, and forming collaborations. A mixed methods study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of the IDW and compare the delivery between virtual and face-to-face formats. The study found IDWs to be acceptable and effective for collaboration and growth and for enhancing success in obtaining grants. A third of IDW presenters ultimately received funding for their proposal, and more than 80% of those who presented indicated they would present again in the future. Additionally, the IDW structure and facilitation process were found to be acceptable, and the virtual format was found to be equally as effective and acceptable as the face-to-face format. The study revealed IDWs to be a strong methodology for enhancing implementation science grant proposals.
Testimonials
“The IDW was very helpful in shaping my grant proposal as well as connecting me with key collaborators. Two people from my group ended up providing me with more detailed feedback on my proposal and one of these people was written in as a consultant on my grant. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity!”
“Very nice experience: presenters got face-to-face dynamic feedback, plus written feedback, plus a note-taker’s summary! Presenters seemed heartened by the discussions.”
“It was a great opportunity to network with both junior (peer) researchers and senior researchers, all of whom were open to networking and brainstorming research ideas. The presentations were very helpful and motivational.”
“This was a fantastic opportunity to learn about things that are developing in implementation research. As an early career researcher (doctoral student) it helped me get ideas for developing my own research program and next steps in my career.”