During the Exploration Phase, potential implementers consider what evidence-based practices might address or solve a clinical or health service problem, while also considering opportunities or challenges in the outer and inner contextual factors that can support or hinder implementation.

The outer context of exploration

Sociopolitical Context

• Legislation

• Policies

• Monitoring and review

Funding

• Service grants

• Research grants

• Continuity of Funding

Client Advocacy

• Consumer organization

Interorganizational Networks

• Direct networking

• Indirect networking

• Professional organizations

• clearinghouse

• technical assistance centers

Across public sector human service organizations, those with a strong focus on development of new knowledge and understanding of best practices (i.e., ‘‘learning organizations,’’ (Senge 2006), as well as incentives to adopt best practices are likely well poised to explore appropriate practices and implementation strategies (Chadwick Center 2004; Hemsley-Brown and Sharp 2003; National Association of Public Child Welfare Administrators [NAPCWA] 2005)

the inner context of exploration

Organizational characteristics

• Absorptive capacity

  • Knowledge/skills

  • Readiness for change

• Culture

• Climate

• Leadership

Individual adopter characteristics

• Values

• Goals

• Social Networks

• Perceived need for change

Resources to facilitate the Exploration Phase

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