Once we know broadly what the problem is and we have understood what really happens, we have a better idea about what it is we want to improve and can start to describe our aim. This is important, because it helps ensure we stay on track and focused, helps others understand what we are trying to do, and helps us identify what our measure of success might be.
It’s not always as easy as it sounds though!
Make sure your aim includes:
Use SMART criteria to make sure your aim is:
S = specific: state exactly what you want to achieve
M = measurable (how much, compared to what)
A = achievable (something you are able to act on)
R = relevant (to you, your patients, your organization)
T = timebound: when you will achieve it by
Watch the clips below for more tips on developing your aim and making it SMARTer
NHS Scotland: Quality Improvement Developing Aims (2:09)
Elizabeth’s aim – To reduce medicines management errors on the ward over a six month period.
Once we have our aim, we can think about the next questions in the Model for Improvement:
Tip: Remember the second question on the Model for Improvement is “How will we know a change is an improvement?” It is important to know how things are before you start, so you have something to compare with that will tell you whether your changes are working or not.