Where the rubber meets the road: An integrated model of technology transfer in the innovation process

Aim: Over a decade ago the Institute of Medicine (IOM) issued a seminal report focusing on substance abuse treatment that specifically acknowledged dissemination of research findings into practice as an area in critical need of improvement and of great importance to the quality of treatment. A key recommendation was increased collaboration between federal agencies, educational and research institutions, and community-based treatment facilities to reduce barriers to the integration of research, treatment, and policy. While impressive Federal initiatives followed, the field continues to lack integrated theories and models of technology transfer to inform and standardize how innovations (research findings, evidence-based practices) are communicated and transferred to the field. Method & Results: Through a process of reviewing literature, theory, and 15 years of the ATTC Network's experience, the ATTC Network Technology Transfer Workgroup developed a conceptual model representing the role of technology transfer within the innovation process. We will present the model along with definitions for seven key terms: development, dissemination, implementation, translation, adoption, technology transfer, and diffusion. Conclusion: The lack of a conceptual model and an integrated taxonomy related to the innovation process has created confusion and limited the ability of researchers and the public to understand basic principles of technology transfer useful in facilitating the movement of research findings to practice. For example, a pitfall of implementing new treatments is attempting to use a new practice following a brief training. Then when the treatment does not work as expected, it is discarded. The ATTC Network conceptual model and definitions can be used by the addiction treatment and recovery services field to more easily understand the process of innovation, and how technology transfer can speed the use of evidence-based treatments to enhance and improve client outcomes.

This work was supported by SAMHSA/CSAT grants to the ATTC National Office and Regional Centers.