PDSA Cycle Skill Building Resources

Rapid cycle testing is a standard tool in quality improvement (QI) using iterative Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSAs) cycles to convert ideas into action. When doing QI work, you must have the following information to successfully conduct PDSA cycles:

Aim: Understand the overall purpose of the test
Measures: Determine ways to collect feedback to ensure a change is an improvement
Generate Ideas & Plan: Brainstorm ideas and theories for potential commonality
Study: Assess the feedback
Act: Adjust your theory (if needed) to plan your next test

The following resources can be used in your rapid cycle testing work:

• Templated form to assist teams with tracking PDSA tests and documenting outcomes: AAP Quality Networks: Blank PDSA Form
• Avoid these common mistakes when beginning to implement PDSA cycle testing: How to Avoid the Most Common Pitfalls in Planning PDSA Cycles
• PDSA testing is an iterative process. Review these tips to successfully move onto your next cycle of testing: 9 Tips for Moving from One PDSA Cycle to the Next
• The “Planning” (P) stage is one of the most important steps in rapid cycle testing. Here’s some helpful reminders when planning a test: Mastering the Planning Stage of PDSAs
• To ensure successful small tests of change, keep these tips in mind: 5 Tips for Testing to Optimize Your Next PDSA
• Remember to keep tests small and don’t overthink it: How to Avoid Analysis Paralysis and Underplanning in PDSAs