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Planning with Purpose: A Guide to Learning Collaboratives

Author(s): Molfenter, T., Manser, S., Williams, D., and the Center for Mental Health Implementation Support, Implementation Strategies Workgroup

Contributed by: Implementation Strategies Workgroup

Learning Collaboratives (LCs) are structured initiatives that bring teams together to learn, test, and implement evidence‑based or evidence‑informed practices with the goal of improving measurable outcomes. While LC models vary across contexts, high‑quality collaboratives commonly include:

  • A clearly defined, measurable aim
  • Structured opportunities for shared learning and peer exchange
  • Use of data to guide testing and improvement
  • Expert faculty, coaching, or implementation support
  • Iterative cycles of testing and refinement (e.g., PDSA cycles)

This document provides a practical planning guide to support the intentional design and implementation of LCs that are aligned with implementation science principles.

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Publication year: 2026

Type: Procedural/Guidance Document/Guides

Target audience: Systems Leaders and Administrators, People Responsible for Leading Implementation Efforts, Organizations Providing Training and Technical Assistance

Experience: Beginner, Intermediate

Language: English