What is it?

Quality improvement (QI) is defined as:

“The application of a systematic approach that uses specific techniques to improve quality” (Health Foundation 2014).

Put simply, QI is a framework to help us make our work better, by finding ways of working differently, not by working harder or faster. It involves a step by step process for how to do this.

QI includes a variety of frameworks (like the Model for Improvement), tools (like process maps), and elements (such as measurement) that come together to systematically make things better. It focuses on systems and processes over individuals, meaning that change and subsequent improvements can be long lasting and built upon.

It may help to compare QI to traditional journeys in healthcare. A problem is observed, a history is taken to understand the frequency and presentation of the problem, ‘tests’ are done to diagnose, measure and understand any causes of the problem (quality planning stage). Treatments are then tried and observed to see whether they address the problem, with adjustments made to treatment depending on progress (quality improvement stage). Progress may be monitored on an ongoing basis, and in monitoring reappearance of the problem may be observed or new problems might arise (quality control) which may require more tests and diagnoses (the quality cycle begins again).

Instead of diagnosing a problem for a person, a system’s problems are measured, diagnosed, ‘treated’ and monitored.

Projects are often used to structure QI, but QI is more than just ‘projects’, it’s a way of thinking about problems and how to improve them.
To find out more about the improvement journey, visit ‘The Improvement Journey’ or visit NES’s information on the Quality Improvement Journey.

Why use it?

We know that there are always things we could do better, and we are learning new ways to make things better every day. We know that the only constant is change (and taxes), and QI is about making sure that change is not for ‘change’s sake’ but is for improvement.

QI provides a framework to make change and improvement both achievable and sustainable. This framework places us in the best position for success. When done right, QI is deliberate and practical, meaning that there won’t be wasted effort or energy.

When to use it?

QI is a framework, but it may not be the most appropriate framework for what you’re trying to achieve. It is best suited to solving complex problems.

Below is a brief summary of some of the different frameworks that are available. These are not comprehensive descriptions and further information is available.