Key Driver Diagram

A driver diagram is a tool for planning an improvement initiative, and helps to define which aspects of the system or project should be measured and monitored, to see if the changes/interventions are effective, and if the underlying causal theories are correct. It represents the team members’ current share team theories of “cause and effect” in the system or project.

Resource Type:

Guide

Topic(s):

Quality Improvement

Related Resource: Process Mapping

Downloads:

Introduction

A key driver diagram depicts the relationship between the aim, the primary drivers that contribute directly to achieving the aim, and the secondary drivers (also called factors or interventions) that are necessary to achieve the primary drivers.

Benefits of Using a Driver Diagram

Defined Drivers and Aims can:

Reinforce the desired project outcome, or aim
Define the key leverage points, or “drivers,” in the system
Link the specific project activities and changes (the “Hows”) to key components in the system
Help define how project progress and results should be measured and monitored
Facilitate stakeholder buy-in and commitment to the changes that the project will require
Provide a simple tool for explaining the project’s purpose and showing how the project activities will deliver that aim