What is the purpose of a "strategy map" in QI?

The purpose of a "strategy map" in Quality Improvement (QI) is to visually represent the relationships between strategic goals and objectives. It serves as a key tool in aligning and clarifying how various initiatives contribute to an organization's overarching mission and objectives. By using a strategy map, teams can clearly see how different components of their strategy interconnect, which aids in ensuring that everyone is working towards the same targets and understands how their efforts play a role in achieving broader organizational goals.

This visualization not only helps in communicating these strategic aims across the organization but also facilitates better decision-making by identifying areas of focus and priority. It can highlight the causal relationships that link objectives, enabling teams to think critically about how to drive improvement and make effective use of their resources. This strategic alignment is crucial for successful QI efforts, ensuring that all activities are directed towards significant and relevant outcomes.