Table 3 Proposed components of a framework to assess organizational capacity for IKT

Culture or philosophy of IKT

• The organizational culture is seen to promote and foster IKT

• IKT is recognized by the organization at the highest levels in its goals, strategic plans, performance measures, and operational budget, and advocated by senior leadership

• The organization actively promotes collaboration across departments or units

Dedicated resources to support IKT

• Dedicated resources are allocated for IKT including leaders, coordinators, space, forums and information systems

IKT linked to organizational priorities

• IKT resources and activities are linked with organizational goals

Identifying collaborators and initiating IKT

• Staff members are aware of individuals for the purpose of collaboration, and how to identify them

• A directory is in place by which to identify researchers or research users for the purpose of collaboration

• Staff members are empowered to take the responsibility for initiating collaboration

Linkages are facilitated by brokers or embedded positions

• Intermediaries or facilitators are in place specifically to support IKT

• Researchers are embedded in departments or units

• Researchers and research users are familiar with each other’s HSPR needs and values

Critical volume of researchers

• Expertise is in place or available, including scientists with knowledge and skill in various disciplines and research methods

Forums offer opportunities for interaction

• A variety of forums, both in-person and technology-enabled are in place to support interaction that may give rise to, or enables IKT

• Researchers and research users initiate, lead and participate in IKT forums

IKT skill or knowledge

• Staff are familiar with the concept of, and approaches for IKT

• Education and training are in place or available to develop value and skills for IKT among staff of all levels

Time for IKT

• Time for IKT is accommodated or scheduled

IKT is incentivized and recognized

• Staff members are accountable for IKT activities

• Time spent on, and the outcome or impact of IKT activities are recognized in performance reviews