Steps to Quality Improvement > Implementation

While it is usually better to approach problems from multiple angles, time and resource constraints often govern what can reasonably be accomplished. If you want an intervention to have the greatest potential for success with the smallest investment and risk, it is a good idea to undertake it sequentially, using small tests of change to determine that each component operates as planned.

There are various models for conducting QI and testing changes,11. Institute for Healthcare Improvement: Testing Changes Website. Available at: http://www.ihi.org/IHI/Topics/Improvement/ImprovementMethods/HowToImprove/testingchanges.htm. August 10, 2007. and no single model is endorsed here. These models each combine group process and systematic testing to solve routine operational problems. While this guide promotes a comprehensive approach to improving CLAS and reducing disparities through assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation, implementation will have a greater chance of success if the QI team breaks it into manageable steps. The QI team should then test  each step independently and, once ready, work on institutionalizing the proven changes.