Journal Articles

Evaluating Service Organization Models: The Relevance and Methodological Challenges of a Configurational Approach

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Based on the example of the evaluation of service organization models, this article shows how a configurational approach overcomes the limits of traditional methods which for the most part have studied the individual components of various models considered independently of one another. These traditional methods have led to results (observed effects) that are difficult to interpret. The configurational approach, in contrast, is based on the hypothesis that effects are associated with a set of internally coherent model features that form various configurations. These configurations, like their effects, are context-dependent. We explore the theoretical basis of the configuration approach in order to emphasize its relevance, and discuss the methodological challenges inherent in the application of this approach through an in-depth analysis of the scientific literature. We also propose methodological solutions to these challenges. We illustrate from an example how a configurational approach has been used to evaluate primary care models. Finally, we begin a discussion on the implications of this new evaluation approach for the scientific and decision-making communities.

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Detail Information

Series Title

Evaluation

Call Number

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Publisher

Thousand Oaks, CA : Sage Publication., 2009

Collation

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Language

English

ISBN/ISSN

1356-3890

Classification

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Content Type

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Media Type

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Carrier Type

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Edition

Vol. 15, No. 4, October 2009.pp. 375-401

Subject(s)

Configuration
Primary care
Quebec
Service organization models
Evaluating Service Organization Models

Specific Detail Info

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Statement of Responsibility

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