Research reports
May 2026
Theory-informed implementation and process evaluation: A rapid review of guidance
Examining the existing literature through a dual-theory lens
Partners
Centre for Evidence and Implementation
Evidence and Research on Youth Employment, Evidence into Action ·
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Centre for Evidence and Implementation
Evaluation panel, Learning partner, Research & evaluation partner
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Overview
Implementation and Programme theories are essential to uncovering ‘what works, for whom, under what conditions’.
To support the creation of guidance for valuators undertaking Theory-Informed Implementation and Process Evaluations (TIIPEs) for Youth Futures Foundation, CEI, Dartington, Friendhood conducted a rapid evidence review and expert consultation.
This report describes the approach taken and synthesises the evidence reviewed.
Research questions
- How is TIIPE defined and its function in different evaluation contexts described?
- How should evaluators approach the development, testing and refinement of programme theory and implementation theory?
- How should evaluators design evaluations to test programme theory and implementation theory, at different stages of evaluation and in different contexts?
- How has TIIPE been undertaken in evaluations of interventions to support the employment of marginalised young people?
Contents
Chapter 1 – Introduction
Chapter 2 – Search strategy, eligibility criteria, and approach to screening and extraction
Chapters 3 to 6 – Research questions 1-3
Chapter 3 – Key definitions and concepts relating to TIIPE adopted in the reviewed studies
Chapter 4 – How to develop, test and refine theory in TIIPE
Chapter 5 – Equity in TIIPE
Chapter 6 – How the focus of TIIPE changes at different stages of evaluation
Chapter 7 – Overview of how theory was incorporated in the selected individual evaluations of initiatives to support marginalised young people into work
Chapter 8 – Discussion
Method
The authors examine the existing literature through a dual-theory lens.
The approach included:
- searching within academic databases with tight search terms and parameters
- a targeted website search for grey literature
- consultation with experts in the field
- exploration of Youth Futures’ published IPEs and Evidence Gap Map, with additional texts included to fill gaps that emerged in synthesis
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