Implementation science in plain language: The use of nonjargon terms to facilitate collaboration

Abstract

Background Interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement are key ingredients in implementation science research. However, effective and efficient collaboration can be limited by the complexity of implementation science terms. In this article, we argue that the development and use of plain language implementation science terms is an essential step to facilitate collaboration and engagement. Method We present an example of plain language development to portray the process and the potential benefits plain language can have on implementation science research. Implementation scientists and intervention experts codeveloped plain language implementation terms as a part of an implementation-effectiveness trial in western Kenya and in preparation for a stakeholder collaborative design meeting. Results The developed plain language terms facilitated wider stakeholder understanding and integration of implementation science findings that could inform the design of a stakeholder-led implementation coaching program. Conclusions We encourage the use of the plain language terms presented in this article, further translation, and additional development of other plain language terms for implementation science constructs.