Chapter 4: Implementation Program Development
Anchor: #i999271Section 1: Implementation Planning
Anchor: #i999277General
Successful implementation of the results of a research project depends on the actual results, management acceptance and support, and how effectively the research results or technology are packaged and communicated to the eventual end user.
How new technologies will be accepted by management and integrated into practice by the user are considered prior to initiating a project and are continually reviewed throughout a research project. The actual process of integrating research results into practice depends on:
- a valid strategy or implementation plan,
- effective communication of research results to the user community (this process is sometimes termed technology transfer), and
- a dedicated effort by individuals involved in the project.
Initial Planning for Implementation
Initial planning for implementation of research results begins with the development of the research Problem Statement by:
- identifying the problem to be addressed,
- identifying the stakeholders impacted by the problem,
- defining the objectives of the research,
- identifying the Office of Primary Responsibility (OPR) for implementing the expected results and products of the research project, and
- defining the products desired as outcomes of the research project, including the format for delivery of the products.
Implementation Plans
As projects are nearing completion, or deliver significant interim results, more focused planning takes place. Implementation plans are developed that outline the steps necessary to incorporate research products into TxDOT operations. Research products are delivered in various formats, including for example, stand-alone devices, handbooks, analytical tools, guidelines, specifications, or simply recommendations.
Implementation plans vary as widely as do research products. The plan for each product, or groups of similar products, is developed by the Project Director and reviewed conceptually by the RMC. In developing the plan, the Project Director considers, among other issues:
- what level of implementation is contemplated,
- what resources are needed,
- what timetable for implementation is most reasonable,
- what policy and procedure changes are needed, and who will develop these materials,
- who will the end users be,
- how is the product best disseminated throughout TxDOT operations,
- what changes to the product received, including format, are needed to facilitate adoption,
- what type of training is needed, if any, and who will coordinate with HRD-Training,
- who will develop training materials and conduct classes, if needed,
- how will future and refresher training be done, and
- is specific funding needed for initial implementation efforts.