Intervention mapping

Intervention mapping is a protocol for developing theory-based and evidence-based health promotion programs. Intervention Mapping describes the process of health promotion program planning in six steps:

1. the needs assessment based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model
2. the definition of performance and change objectives based upon scientific analyses of health problems and problem causing factors;
3. the selection of theory-based intervention methods and practical applications to change (determinants of) health-related behavior;
4. the production of program components, design and production;
5. the anticipation of program adoption, implementation and sustainability; and
6. the anticipation of process and effect evaluation.

Intervention mapping is characterized by three perspectives: an ecological approach, participation of all stakeholders, and the use of theories and evidence. Although intervention mapping is presented as a series of steps, the authors see the planning process as iterative rather than linear. Program planners move back and forth between tasks and steps. The process is also cumulative: each step is based on previous steps, and inattention to a particular step may lead to mistakes and inadequate decisions.