Table 1 Outline of phases of intervention development and relationship to processes followed in Intervention Mapping and the Behavior Change Wheel

Phase 1 – Understand the behavior and specify the target for change

Step 1: Logic model of the problem

• Establish and work with a planning group

• Conduct a needs assessment

• Describe the context for the intervention including the population, setting, and community

• State program goals

Stage 1: Understand the behavior

1. Define the problem in behavioral terms

2. Select target behavior

3. Specify target behavior

4. Identify what needs to change

Step 2: Program outcomes and objectives – logic model of change

• State expected outcomes for behavior and environment

• Specify performance objectives for behavioral and environmental outcomes

• Select determinants for behavioral and environmental outcomes

• Construct matrices of change objectives

• Create a logic model of change

Phase 2 – Identify theoretical basis for proposed behavior change and select relevant behavior change techniques

Step 3: Program design

• Generate program themes, components, scope, and sequence

• Choose theory and evidence-based change methods

• Select or design practical applications to deliver change methods

Stage 2: Identify intervention options

1. Intervention functions

2. Policy categories

Stage 3: Identify content and implementation options

3. Behavior change techniques

Phase 3 – Identify mode of delivery, choose design principles to guide selection of intervention components, and develop the intervention.

Step 4: Program production

• Prepare plans for program materials

• Draft messages, materials, and protocols

• Pre-test, refine, and produce materials

Stage 3: Identify content and implementation options

4. Mode of delivery

Phase 4 – Assess the fidelity of intervention delivery

Step 5: Program implementation plan

• Identify potential program users

• State outcomes and performance objectives for program use

• Construct matrices of change objectives for program use

• Design implementation interventions

N/A

Phase 5 – Assess intervention efficacy and test mediators and moderators of the outcome.

Step 6: Evaluation plan

• Write effect and process evaluation questions

• Develop indicators and measures for assessment

• Specify the evaluation design

• Complete the evaluation plan

N/A