Evidence-Based Implementation Support: Considering Motivation and Capacity Within the Ecosystem of Training and Technical Assistance

Abstract

This invited commentary reflects on Wandersman and Scheier’s (2024) call for a more evidence-based model of training and technical assistance (i.e. TTA or implementation support). Their clarion call prompts us to consider what steps need to be taken to refine and scale a solution that genuinely enhances the effectiveness of TTA through a re-imagined model of implementation support. We highlight eight priorities to re-imagine a more effective and efficient model of TTA that reflects best practice and simultaneously contributes to continuous, collective evidence-building. The eight priorities include: (1) an ecosystem of TTA connecting TTA research and practice; (2) TTA capacity building; (3) health equity, and equitable partnerships; (4) trust and relationships; (5) TTA evaluation; (6) continuous quality improvement; (7) implementation support mechanisms; and (8) cost-effective solutions. We advocate for an international, cross-disciplinary, applied agenda aimed at establishing a robust empirical foundation for TTA to foster a culture of continuous quality improvement and knowledge generation across government agencies and philanthropies that fund TTA Centers. We describe a potential scenario for how funders can initiate and support evidence-based TTA.