CEI identifies the building blocks of evidence-informed practice to support system and service transformation efforts.
Common Elements (also called "practice elements") are discrete techniques or strategies that are common across multiple programs with demonstrated efficacy. CEI is at the forefront of emerging and innovative methods to identify evidence-informed practices, and to leverage implementation science to mobilise effective practice throughout service systems. This approach aims to accelerate the uptake of research evidence in practice, and to empower practitioners, policy makers and funders to adapt evidence-informed approaches to local context and community needs.
To identify and adapt Common Elements, we undertake a rigorous examination of the research literature in parallel with sector consultation and co-design. In this way, the best available evidence is adapted for ‘fit’ with local service systems and informed by practitioner and stakeholder knowledge.
An essential part of the approach that CEI offers is strong implementation support to ensure the uptake of Common Elements across service systems. Implementation support often includes the development of practice guides, implementation frameworks, capacity building of leadership staff, and providing direct delivery of training and coaching to frontline teams. Our work focuses on equipping our partners to adopt and sustain integrated and flexible service delivery models informed by the best available evidence in intervention design and implementation.
Common Elements are a core part of CEI’s work and we are pleased to be among a small group of global organisations and teams seeking to advance research, practice, and insight in this area. We have Common Elements initiatives underway in Australia, Singapore, and the UK.
