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ObjectivesWe aimed to identify when and how integration should take place within evaluations of complex population health interventions (PHIs).Study designDescriptive analytical approach.MethodsWe draw on conceptual insights that emerged through (1) a working group on integration and (2) a diverse range of literature on case studies, small-n evaluations and mixed methods evaluation studies.ResultsWe initially sought techniques to integrate analyses at the end of a complex PHI evaluation. However, this conceptualization of integration proved limiting. Instead, we found value in conceptualizing integration as a process that commences at the beginning of an evaluation and continues throughout. Many methods can be used for this type of integration, including process tracing, realist evaluation, congruence analysis, general elimination methodology/modus operandi, pattern matching and contribution analysis. Clearly signposting when integrative methods should commence within an evaluation should be of value to the PHI evaluation community, as well as to funders and related stakeholders.ConclusionsRather than being a tool used at the end of an evaluation, we propose that integration is more usefully conceived as a process that commences at the start of an evaluation and continues throughout. To emphasize the importance of this timing, integration can be described as comprising 'Work Package Zero' within evaluations of complex PHIs.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.puhe.2022.06.028

Type

Journal article

Journal

Public health

Publication Date

10/2022

Volume

211

Pages

1 - 4

Addresses

MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Box 285 Institute of Metabolic Science, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom. Electronic address: mra47@cam.ac.uk.

Keywords

Humans, Research Design, Delivery of Health Care, Surveys and Questionnaires, Population Health