Project Summary: Social networks (e.g., relationships and linkages between individuals, organizations, and other entities) are often emphasized as important influences on implementation efforts. However, the literature is still developing in terms of how to determine which networks to examine and/or how to intervene upon them. We will draw upon an existing systematic review that identified 74 community-level implementation science theories, models, and frameworks. Our first step will be to determine whether or not the framework explicitly addresses the importance of social networks. Among those that do, we will explore the types of networks/actors described (e.g., inter-organizational or intra-organizational), the range of resources expected to flow across networks (e.g., information, advice, etc.), and types of network interventions suggested (e.g., expanding or restricting participation). The project will yield a suite of potential network interventions that can be used in implementation efforts, with a particular eye toward those that advance health equity. The project is conducted in collaboration with the ISC3 center at Washington University.
Project Lead: Shoba Ramanadhan