Implementation Science Lab
Bridging Research and Practice
Welcome to the Implementation Science Lab at UNSW Business School. We tackle the “last research mile challenge” by translating complex academic insights into actionable real-world solutions. Our focus is on bridging the gap between research and practical application, ensuring evidence-based solutions are effectively implemented to address pressing organisational and societal challenges.
Vision and mission
Vision
Our vision is to address the research-to-practice gap by translating complex academic insights into actionable real-world solutions.
Mission
- Advancing Translational Research: We aim to transform the landscape of business research by translating research outcomes into effective solutions for real-world problem-solving – i.e., implementing the science.
- Formalising a Scientific Body of Knowledge: Cumulating from each research project, we are developing a unique portfolio of Implementation Science methodologies, technologies, and products that rigorously support the application of business research in practical settings – i.e., advancing the science of implementation.
Strategic priorities
Amplifying Research Impact
Our lab offers a new solution-oriented perspective, supporting researchers in navigating the last research mile and enhancing the impact of business research. By partnering with industry and leading research institutes, we identify high-potential research and facilitate its practical implementation.
Developing Implementation Science Capability
We are pioneering the expansion of Implementation Science beyond health services to the business domain. Our lab cultivates a team of implementation scientists with specialised expertise in digital innovation and system implementation. This extends the boundary of Implementation Science to various organisational and societal settings.
How to collaborate with us
We spearhead research partnerships through two interconnected pathways:
- Solution-oriented Pathway: Form strategic alliances with top-tier research institutes to support and advance the application of promising research outcomes.
- Use-oriented Pathway: Collaborate directly with practitioners facing complex implementation challenges, building a reservoir of expertise to tackle projects across various contexts.
Embodying the multifaceted expertise of business research, our lab offers critical guidance on the "how-to" of implementation. We support stakeholders through the complexities of implementing novel solutions—from navigating barriers to change and evaluating readiness and context, to planning necessary adaptations and ensuring the sustainability of value creation.
Current research
Our research focuses on equipping organisations and communities with the knowledge and tools needed to implement theory-driven, evidence-based solutions effectively, thereby enhancing real-world outcomes
- Implementation Science for Organisational Transformation: Funded by a government utility agency, we are developing a customised implementation science roadmap for the strategic implementation of generative AI tools within the organisation. This project leverages research expertise across information systems, corporate governance, organisational change, leadership, and operation management.
- Implementation Science for Environmental Resilience: In collaboration with the UNSW Digital Grid Futures Institute, we are creating a prescriptive framework for effective cyber risk management in renewable energy network implementation. This project translates the latest in cyber risk and energy system modelling techniques into actionable strategies for optimizing renewable energy deployment.
- Implementation Science for Healthcare Advancement: Partnering with SingHealth and the National University of Singapore (NUS) Behavioural and Implementation Science Interventions (BISI) team, we are exploring projects involving the implementation of digital tools for promoting chronic disease management. This collaboration aims to integrate digital health solutions into existing healthcare practices, improving patient outcomes and care effectiveness.
Our people
The Implementation Science Lab's academic team is structured into specialised implementation units, each contributing essential expertise to guide the implementation of innovative processes, structures, and systems within organisational and community settings. Our members bring diverse yet complementary perspectives that synergistically address multifaceted implementation challenges.
Lab directors
School of Information Systems and Technology Management
Our Implementation Scientists
UNSW researchers
International associates
