Improving the replication success of evidence-based interventions: why a preimplementation phase matters.

PURPOSE:Careful scrutiny of the literature reveals that the preimplementation phase is often overlooked by researchers interested in understanding the portability of evidence-based interventions to other settings. In this paper we document the importance of preimplementation and the planning year in enabling adopters to identify and resolve potential implementation barriers. METHODS:Roger's diffusion of innovation theory and tenets of technology transfer models are the heuristic frameworks used to guide the analysis of the preimplementation phase of an abstinence replication study. RESULTS:The planning year allowed for the securing and consolidation of stakeholder support; preparing the organization for implementation; redressing issues with the intervention packet; responding to the cultural norms of the adopting community; fine tuning the training approach and addressing emergent challenges. CONCLUSIONS:Preimplementation provides adopters with opportunities to test the intervention before full implementation; and to identify and address potential threats to successful adoption.