Table 1 MRC process evaluation components (adapted from [4], with definitions in italics where provided in original)
Context | ||
Causal mechanisms present within the context that act to maintain the status quo, or enhance effects | Contextual factors that shape theory of how the intervention works | Contextual moderators Shape, and may be shaped by, implementation, intervention mechanisms, and outcomes |
Implementation | ||
Dose How much intervention is delivered | Fidelity The consistency of what is implemented with the planned intervention | Adaptations Alterations made to an intervention in order to achieve better contextual fit |
How delivery is achieved The structures, resources and mechanisms through which delivery is achieved | Reach Extent to which target audience comes into contact with intervention | |
Mechanisms of impact | ||
Mediators Intermediate processes which explain subsequent changes in outcome | Participant responses How participants interact with a complex intervention | Unanticipated pathways and consequences |