Learnings from the Dutch Sport and Exercise Implementation Network (SPIN): improve implementation capacity through learning.

Background. Effective sports and physical activity (SPA) innovations are currently developed at unprecedented rates. The uptake of these interventions by practice however, remains a hurdle in realising impact. One strategy to support implementation is improving implementation capacity through communities of practice. This presentation discusses the formation and implementation of the Dutch Sport and Exercise Implementation Network (SPIN).

Program Delivery. The network was designed to: (1) educate, (2) connect, and (3) disseminate knowledge gained in implementation science. At the start in 2021, the network consisted of 16 researchers with a background in SPA. Through topical meetings, participants gianed in-depth knowledge by experts. Various networking and intervission sessions were held to facilitate peer-learning. Participants worked on an implementation case study to apply the knowledge.

Evaluation. Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), we analysed relevant documents, two rounds of semi-structured interviews with the network participants, and observations of network meetings. The network and activities were valued by the participants and provided tools and knowledge to overcome implementation barriers. Yet, not all implementations were successful. The evaluation revealed four themes with a decisive influence in the cases: (1) implementation ownership, (2) expertise and skills, (3) characteristics of the intervention, and (4) the organisational context.

Conclusions. The network strategy was successful in improving implementation capacity. Succes of implementation (likely) depends on the knowledge, expertise, and skills of involved implementers. Various factors should and can be tackled of which ownership is of great importance. To support implementers, communities of practice can facilitate knowledge and skill acquisition.
Practical implications. We reflect on designing, implementing, and sustaining a network of implementers in SPA. Dispite heterogenetity in interventions and settings, underlying implementation processes were similar. The lessons learned from this network can help researchers and policy makers in supporting implementation projects using a community of practice approach.