What is in the PDSA Cycle?
The "Plan-Do-Study-Act" (PDSA) cycle is shorthand for testing a change — by planning it, trying it, observing the results, and acting on what is learned. This is the scientific method, used for action-oriented learning.
Use of PDSA cycles is a way of testing an idea by putting a change into effect on a temporary basis and learning from its potential impact. This approach is quite different from the approach traditionally used in healthcare settings, where new ideas are often introduced without sufficient testing.
A PDSA cycle involves testing change ideas on a small scale. By building on the learning from these test cycles in a structured and incremental way, a new idea can be implemented with a greater chance of success.
There are four stages to a PDSA cycle:
Step 1: Plan
Plan the test or observation
- State the objective
- Make predictions about what will happen and why
- Develop a plan to test the change. (Who? What? When? Where?)
Step 2: Do
Try out the test on a small scale
- Carry out the test
- Document problems and unexpected observations
- Begin analysis of the data
Step 3: Study
Set aside time to analyse the data and study the results
- Complete the analysis of the data
- Compare the data to your predictions
- Summarize and reflect on what was learned
Step 4: Act
Refine the change, based on what was learnt from the test
- Determine what modifications should be made
- Prepare a plan for the next test
[Principal author(s): Richard Jones]
See also…
Model for improvement: The Model for Improvement is based on the sequential building of knowledge and is centred on three questions that are fundamental to all improvement activities, followed by testing using the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle .
The PDSA cycle is a useful technique as part of your Personal Development Plan
