Background We developed a Guideline Implementability for Decision Excellence-Framework Model (GuIDE-M) based on the robust evidentiary base of a realist review on guideline attributes. GuIDE-M emerged as a conceptual representation of factors to facilitate the development of more implementable guidelines.

Objectives Validity assessment of GuIDE-M with international guideline developers.

Methods We assessed GuIDE-M using a stepwise validation process: Stage 1 involved consultation with a multi-disciplinary group of Canadian experts (including guideline research, psychology, management, and human factors engineering) to assess the sense and structure of the conceptual GuIDE-M. In Stage 2, 200 international guideline developers will assess GuIDE-M using an innovative online assessment platform, which includes an interactive video-based system to enable objective assessment of the model and its components.

Results In Stage 1, consultation with 10 multi-disciplinary experts informed major structural changes (e.g., addition of a 6th domain) and minor sense changes (e.g., collapsing like attributes) to the model. Stage 2 (in progress) will assess the organisation of the model according to Stage 1 findings: 1) To consider Stakeholder involvement, Evidence synthesis, Considered judgement and Feasibility in the development of guidelines; 2) and to communicate this content using effective Language and Format.

Discussion We are applying an innovative stepwise process to rigorously validate and refine GuIDE-M internationally.

Implications for Guideline Developers/Users This study represents a novel contribution to guideline developers and will offer a comprehensive, validated model that considers an exhaustive set of evidence-based factors to facilitate guideline uptake.