Phases of the IDEAL framework22
| Idea | Initial report Innovation may be planned, accidental or forced Focus on explanation and description |
| Development | Rapid iterative modification of innovation Small experience from one centre Focus on technical details and feasibility |
| Exploration | Innovation now more stable Replication by others Focus on assessing potential benefits and adverse effects |
| Assessment | Innovation gaining wide acceptance Considered as possible replacement for current treatment, ways of working Focus on comparative evaluation against current standards or best practice |
| Long-term monitoring | Long-term surveillance of the innovation Focus on monitoring late and rare problems, changes in use |