Check out this new publication first authored by Fellow Sarah Birken (2014 Cohort) which examined which theories implementation scientists use and the criteria for selecting them.
Top 3 theories used: 1) Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), 2) Reach Effectiveness Adoption Implementation Maintenance (REAIM), and 3) Diffusion of Innovation.
Most important criterion for selecting theory: 1)Empirical support, 2) Application to a specific setting/population, and 3) Explanatory and power/testability.
Check out the full text article HERE!
Full citation:
Birken, S., Powell, B., Shea, C., Haines, E., Alexis Kirk, M., Leeman, J., Rohweder, C., Damschroder, L. and Presseau, J. (2017). Criteria for selecting implementation science theories and frameworks: results from an international survey. Implementation Science, 12(1).