In this final module about the Plan step of the PDSA cycle, we will review how to identify the quality data necessary to test the value of process changes you are planning to make. Without this preparation, chances are that your test will be weak or inconclusive. We examine the different types of data that may be collected: process data and outcomes data. We look at all the formats in which data may be collected: nominal, ordinal, continuous, and how to go about collecting these types of data.

• Describe the importance of determining a data plan before conducting a test of change
• Describe how to identify key PDSA test data from your care processes
• Identify the steps involved in collecting data for a test of change