QI Project Planner

Design a rigorous quality improvement project using the IHI Model for Improvement. This tool guides you from aim setting to your first PDSA cycle. (Note: Not affiliated with IHI, please visit https://www.ihi.org/ to learn more from directly from the source)

1Aim
2Measures
3Changes
4PDSA
5Summary

Step 1: Set Your Aim

The First Fundamental Question: "What are we trying to accomplish?"
An effective aim statement is specific, measurable, and time-bound. It should answer: How good? By when? For whom?
Briefly describe what you want to improve.
Be specific about the patient population or unit.
State the baseline and target.
Example Aim: "Reduce waiting time to see a physician for patients ages 65+ from 45 minutes to less than 15 minutes by July 2024."

Step 2: Establish Measures

The Second Fundamental Question: "How will we know that a change is an improvement?"
You need a family of measures to understand the system's performance.
The ultimate result you want to achieve (matches your aim).
Are the steps in the system performing as planned?
Are we causing unintended problems elsewhere?

Step 3: Develop Changes

The Third Fundamental Question: "What change can we make that will result in improvement?"
Use a Driver Diagram to connect your aim to specific change ideas.

Primary Drivers

Major system components that contribute to the aim.

Secondary Drivers

Specific elements of primary drivers.

Change Ideas

Specific, testable interventions.
Tip: Look for change concepts like "Eliminate waste," "Improve workflow," or "Error proofing."

Step 4: Plan Your First PDSA

The Engine of Improvement: Plan-Do-Study-Act.
Start small! Think "Power of One" (1 patient, 1 provider, 1 day).
What is the specific goal of THIS test cycle?
What do you expect to happen? (Crucial for learning!)

Project Plan Ready!

Here is your complete QI project charter.