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Improvement tools

The Collaborative Model for Improvement [1] was designed to provide a framework for developing, testing and implementing changes that lead to improvement.  In particular it was developed to bring about changes in services where variations existed, recognising that often the spread of good practice does not happen automatically.

The Model for Improvement is based on three fundamental questions:
  • What are we trying to accomplish ?
  • How will we know that a change is an improvement ?
  • What changes can we make that will result in improvement ?
And a “cycle” for learning and improvement known as PDSA – Plan, Do, Study, Act.

Teams working within a Collaborative programme may use a range of tools and techniques to help them bring about positive improvements in services.  These include:
  •  PDSA cycles
  • Process Mapping
  • Sustainability & Spread
Further information on these and other tools and techniques can be found by visiting the NHS Modernisation Agency website at www.modern.nhs.uk

[1] Langley, Nolan, Nolan, Norman & Povost, “The Improvement Guide” Jossey Bass 1996
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