This article reviews literature that emphasizes how both research findings and practical applications have confirmed the fundamental importance of program implementation in the spread of successful character education interventions. Attention is given to defining implementation, explaining its major elements and why it is so important, discussing some of the multiple factors that can enhance or impede effective implementation, and presenting a framework that illustrates the multiple steps that should be followed to increase the chances that a program will be put to a fair test in a new setting. Findings from character development interventions are presented to illustrate various points. A collaborative partnership between researchers and practitioner is critical to effective implementation. Three additional issues affecting program implementation that are emphasized involve the importance of staff development, leadership, and the necessity of committing the necessary resources in terms of time, effort, and money toward achieving effective implementation.