Documenting the Idea
Documenting the idea after enhancement can support a decision to implement, focusing on the critical element of evaluation of the idea. While you may not have all the information that will ultimately be required, you need to provide the critical details that will allow decison makers to be convinced of the value of the idea.
Explain the idea in two or three clear, informative, compelling paragraphs, using complete sentences and a narrative structure without bullet-points. Bullet-lists facilitate oversimplification, summarization to the point of losing the idea. Present a story or scenario that supports the idea, providing the description completely so as not to require other supporting documents for full understanding.
Describe features and benefits, using a bullet list. Consider both internal and external customers and remember to align the list to patient needs and organizational goals. Keep in mind that everyone impacted will be asking "What's in it for me?" and that everyone who supports the idea will need to see value and something that appeals to them in the documentation.
No matter how perfect an idea, there is always a downside, a risk or an offsetting objection. You will show your objectivity and lack of bias by clearly stating these points, rather than having them surface later in the evaluation or discussion. Being proactive in identifying the issues will diminish reactive or defensive positions later.
Supporting information should be provided, detailing facts and "the numbers" that define the idea as a good one that is actionable. Include supporting information that reflects your analysis of the idea, including satisfaction, revenue, cycle time, cost savings, waste reduction, moral/legal implications, potential for enabling other innovation, uniqueness, market differentiator, etc.
Finally, an intuitive conclusion that expresses powerfully in a sentence or two your sentiments regarding the idea. A range of sentiments might be
- This idea is a home run!
- What are we waiting for?
- Our patients and stakeholders wil like this change.
- We should do this, but it is unlikely to resolve the underlying issues.
- It's better to maintain the status quo.
- Might be an idea whose time will come later.
- All things considered, not worth the effort.
Never stop questioning. Curiousity has its own reason for being
Albert Einstein
