Best Practices

Evidence-Based Practice
(evidence-based, research-based, exemplary)

Best Practice
(best practice, effective, promising)

Promising Approach
(promising, emerging)

Definition

Interventions, techniques, methodologies, or curricula that, through scientific research and formal evaluation, have proven effective.

Interventions, techniques, methodologies, or curricula that, through experience or research, have proven to reliably lead to desired results that demonstrate efficiency, sustainability, collaboration and integration.

Interventions, techniques, methodologies, or curricula that have anecdotal evidence and professional wisdom to show positive outcomes.

Evaluation

Practices that are science based and theory-based, have sound research methodology, and can prove that effects are clearly linked to the program itself and not to extraneous events.  Results from science-based programs may be positive, neutral or negative.  Practices that have been reviewed by experts in the field according to predetermined standards of empirical research.

Practices that are in areas where there are enough outcome data (or that have been sufficiently evaluated) to be deemed best practices and have demonstrated success through following tangible results (e.g., improvements in beneficiary physical or mental well-being).

Promising approaches also have indicators or evidence of positive results and have demonstrated success through the following tangible results (e.g., improvements in beneficiary physical or mental well- being).

Characteristics

Includes or has the following:

• based on a clear and well-articulated theory
• has associated methods of ensuring fidelity can be evaluated
• addresses cultural diversity and different populations
• can be used by staff with a wide diversity of backgrounds and training

Includes or has the following:

• vision that is clearly articulated and understood mission, values, and strategic direction
• there have been sufficient studies and evaluations to indicate that the practice is promising and is most likely beneficial for consumers and their families
• can be used by staff with a wide diversity of backgrounds and training

Meets the following criteria:

• collaboration
• innovation
• responsiveness
• some qualitative and quantitative evidence that the practice improves the target outcomes