C. Cross-Cutting Implementation Dimensions

Each dimension is an implementation function, such as adaptation, fidelity or scale-up, running across all seven sector domains.

Cross-cutting dimension	Relevant approaches	Main purpose
Implementation strategy selection	ERIC, Implementation Mapping	Identify and select appropriate strategies
Implementation strategy specification	Proctor's strategy specification, ERIC	Describe strategies clearly and reproducibly
Contextual adaptation	FRAME, FRAME-IS	Document and analyse adaptations
Implementation planning	EPIS, QIF, Implementation Mapping	Plan implementation activities
Scale-up and spread	ExpandNet, ISF, Diffusion of Innovations	Guide expansion and dissemination
Sustainability	Dynamic Sustainability Framework, RE-AIM, sustainability constructs frameworks	Understand and assess continued implementation
Implementation outcomes	Proctor's Implementation Outcomes Framework	Assess implementation success
Implementation fidelity	Carroll's Framework for Implementation Fidelity	Assess adherence to intended intervention components
Quality improvement	Model for Improvement, PDSA	Support iterative improvement
Complexity and systems change	Systems Thinking, Complex Adaptive Systems approaches	Understand interactions, feedback and adaptation
Implementation learning	Learning Health System Frameworks, Organizational Learning Theory	Generate and use learning for improvement

One more distinction matters. ERIC compiles and names implementation strategies. It does not explain why implementation succeeds. FRAME and FRAME-IS document adaptations but do not show, on their own, whether an adaptation improved outcomes.

The Nine Consolidated Dimensions

In the master classification, the eleven functions above consolidate into nine dimensions: strategy selection and specification, contextual adaptation, implementation fidelity, quality improvement, scale-up and spread, sustainability, implementation outcomes, complexity and systems change, and implementation learning. Implementation planning sits with the process models of Part A.