The final step of the change process is to sustain the change in the “future state”. This step takes place in the normal operating system rather than the active change cycle.
Why
Sustaining change in a proactive way maintains progress. It also reduces the risk of things returning to the pre-change state.
What
This step uses processes for maintaining quality. These processes include:
- ongoing data measurement
- gathering feedback
to assess the value and impact of the new model. Operating a Quality Management System supports sustainable change by using processes to maintain quality.
Up until this point, the change has taken place within one defined test location. This could be:
- a geographical location
- a specific service
- a defined group of people (service users or providers)
Once there is sustainable change in the test location, monitoring ensures it achieves a high quality and safe new model. It can then be reviewed to decide whether to spread or scale the new model to other locations.
Understanding the context of new locations is essential. This helps determine if the change has potential to spread and/or requires adaption.
How
Examples of tools that support the sustain step:
- Routine service feedback and other engagement tools.
- Data measurement such as measurement plans, run charts and other data collection tools.