A variety of improvement tools are used to help visualize how systems are organized and function to produce outcomes.
Process maps lay out the steps that translate an input into an outcome. They include key decision points and can be used to describe things like workflows or how information travels through an organization.
A system improvement map is used to visualize the structures, processes, and norms that exist in different parts of a system. Often developed during problem investigation and causal system analysis, it can be a useful reference in understanding how system components relate to each other. This guide describes the purpose of system improvement maps and outlines a process for creating one.
A failure mode effect analysis is used to identify process problems or breakdowns. This step-by-step approach for identifying possible failures and their effects in a particular process or design helps to identify where improvements might be targeted to achieve better outcomes.
These guides provide an overview of each tool and describe how they can be leveraged within an improvement team or community. They also outline the process for engaging with each tool with an example.
- Download the Process Mapping Quick Reference (PDF)
- Download the System Improvement Map QuickReference (PDF)
- Download the Failure Mode Effect Analysis Quick Reference (PDF)
