Improvement Method Olympics Quarter Final 2

Posted by: NHS Horizons - Posted on:

  1. Appreciative Inquiry (methodology)

Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a way of looking at organisational or system change that focuses on doing more of what is already working. So instead of starting with ‘what’s the problem’ and looking for fixes it starts with ‘what’s already working’ and how can we build on that?

That doesn’t mean we ignore problems; we just look at them in a different way. AI is based on the principle that a group, organisation or system will grow in the direction of whatever its people focus their attention on. By creating a space for people to share experiences of when they worked at their best, not only does it stimulate energy for change; it also builds relationships and a shared understanding of everyone’s contribution.

Appreciative inquiry - the 5D model Definition, Discovery, Delivery, Design, Dream

View the Appreciative Inquiry Resource pack from the Scottish Social Services Council and NHS Education for Scotland.

Additional resources on Appreciative Inquiry

Four Appreciative Inquiry Tools, Exercises and Activities from PositivePsychology.com

Using Appreciative Inquiry with an island community in Northern Ireland by Appreciating People. Suggested by @Nardia_Joy

The Appreciative Inquiry training handbook by AGID. Suggested by @JBVISTA. Note: the link only lasts until 20th Agust 2021

Links to multiple articles and resources from the Cooperrider Centre, a global hub for Appreciative Inquiry. Suggested by @Charles_S_Lee

2. Value stream mapping (method)

Value stream mapping (VSM) allows us to create a detailed visualisation of all steps in our work process or care process. It uses a system of symbols to depict various work activities and information flows. VSM is especially useful to find and eliminate waste. Items are mapped as adding value or not adding value from the standpoint of your customer or patient, with the purpose of rooting out items that don’t add value.

Value stream mapping from NHS Improving Quality, Bringing Lean to Life

Additional resources on Value Stream Mapping

https://kresgeguides.bus.umich.edu/Lean-ValueStreams/Value-Streams-VSM-MappingLean & Value Streams: Value Streams & Value Stream Mapping (VSM) by KRESGE Library Services. Suggested by @Winn_on_Health

Value-Stream Mapping by the Lean Enterprise Institute. Suggested by @Winn_on_Health

Three podcasts on Value Stream Mapping suggested by @robdykedotcom:

The Value of Value-Stream Mapping

Considerations for Planning a Value Stream Mapping Exercise

Simplifying Value Stream Mapping with Steve Pereira