Table 1 The 6SQuID process

Step 1: define and understand the problem

Clarify the problem, using the existing research. Establish how the issues are socially and spatially situated, including any immediate or underlying influences. Diagrams may help at this point

Step 2: clarify which causal or contextual factors are malleable and have greatest scope for change

Identify the factors that shape the problem and have the greatest scope to be changed. Diagrammatic representation in step 1 may help to establish the most effective intervention point(s) in causal pathways

Step 3: identify how to bring about change: the change mechanism

Articulate the theory of change and mechanism(s) for incorporation into the intervention

Step 4: identify how to deliver the change mechanism

Investigate the means and options for delivering the intervention, as well as target groups and context

Step 5: test and refine on a small scale

Identify a means of testing the intervention in an appropriate setting, for a small sample of the target group(s), as detailed in step 4

Step 6: collect sufficient evidence of effectiveness to justify rigorous implementation or evaluation

Gather evidence that the intervention has worked as intended in the small scale, in order to warrant larger scale application. This may include critically examining any unintended/detrimental effects