From Field Theory to CFIR: An Umbrella Review of 614 Implementation Science Theories, Models and Frameworks (1939–2022)

Guillaume Fontaine, PhD, MSc, RN
McGill University

ABSTRACT:
This presentation will outline the findings of an umbrella review cataloguing the current universe of implementation science theories, models, and frameworks (TMFs), describing their purposes, structures, analytic levels, and historical trends. From 9,276 records, 44 reviews (2002–2024) were included, identifying 614 unique TMFs published 1939–2022 heavily concentrated in recent decades. Overall, the landscape has expanded from a handful of classics to 614 TMFs, yet only a small subset dominate practice and citations; priorities include pruning redundancy, strengthening rigor, and advancing future TMF development.