Data help to monitor performance and progress, plan effectively, make informed decisions, and identify strengths and opportunities for improvement
To use data effectively we need to know how to:
To interpret and respond appropriately to data, we must understand variation
Responding to variation in systems and processes involves distinguishing between common and special cause variation.
How we respond to common and special cause variation must be different.
Common cause variation is the natural variation in systems and processes that occurs as the net result of multiple influences. To reduce the impact of common cause variation and improve performance, we must identify, prioritise and minimise the root causes.
Special cause variation is due to an exceptional circumstance and can usually be attributed to a single cause. To reduce the impact of special cause variation, we must investigate and identify the cause and apply a specific solution.
Failing to study variation and responding in the wrong way is called tampering. Over time tampering will make things worse.
Improvement tools provide effective and efficient ways to collect, display and study the variation in systems and processes.
