Lessons learned in evaluating system interdependencies using qualitative methods.

This article shares lessons learned while evaluating the system interdependencies for a clinical and translational research centre (CTR). It explores the methodological challenge of discussing system concepts (e.g.

Using the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) Building Block Approach to Implement System Evaluation Theory (SET).

This article shares lessons learned in applying system evaluation theory (SET) to evaluate a Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTR) funded by the National Institutes of Health. After describing how CTR support cores are intended to work interdependently as a system, the case is made for SET as the best fit for evaluating this evaluand. The article then details how the evaluation was also challenged to facilitate a CTR culture shift, helping support cores to move from working autonomously to working together and understanding how the cores' individual operating processes impact each other.

Lessons Learned in Evaluating the Infrastructure of a Centre for Translational Research (CTR).

This paper shares lessons learned while evaluating the implementation of a Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTR). To meet its overarching goals the CTR consists of numerous research support units (e.g.

Using spatial regression methods to evaluate rural emergency medical services (EMS).

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are acute services provided outside of the hospital. EMS are crucial in rural environments where hospitals are often far away and difficult to access. Establishing EMS performance measures is critical in improving a rural community's access to these services and eliminating systemic inequalities.

The power of the context map: Designing realistic outcome evaluation strategies and other unanticipated benefits.

Developing a feasible evaluation plan is challenging when multiple activities, often sponsored by multiple agencies, work together toward a common goal. Often, resources are limited and not every agency's interest can be represented in the final evaluation plan. The article illustrates how the Antecedent Target Measurement (ATM) approach to logic modeling was adapted to meet this challenge.