Abstract

Background: This paper aimed to use theDelphi technique to develop a consensusframework for a multinational, workplacewalking intervention. Methods: Ideas weregathered and ranked from eight recognized andemerging experts in the fields of physical activityand health, from universities in Australia,Canada, England, the Netherlands, NorthernIreland, and Spain. Members of the panel wereasked to consider the key characteristics of asuccessful campus walking intervention. Consensuswas reached by an inductive, contentanalytic approach, conducted through an anonymous,three-round, e-mail process. Results:The resulting framework consisted of threeinterlinking themes defined as “design, implementation,and evaluation.” Top-ranked subitemsin these themes included the need to generateresearch capacity (design), to respond togroup needs through different walkingapproaches (implementation), and to undertakephysical activity assessment (evaluation).Themes were set within an underpinningdomain, referred to as the “institution” andsites are currently engaging with subitems inthis domain, to provide sustainable interventionsthat reflect the practicalities of local contextsand needs. Conclusions: Findings providea unique framework for designing,implementing, and evaluating walking projectsin universities and highlight the value of adoptingthe Delphi technique for planning international,multisite health initiatives.