IHI.org - A resource from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement
Header Image





Download File
Pareto Diagram (IHI Tool)

Institute for Healthcare Improvement
Boston, Massachusetts, USA

According to the "Pareto Principle," in any group of things that contribute to a common effect, a relatively few contributors account for the majority of the effect. A Pareto diagram is a type of bar chart in which the various factors that contribute to an overall effect are arranged in order according to the magnitude of their effect. This ordering helps identify the "vital few" — the factors that warrant the most attention. Using a Pareto diagram helps a team concentrate its efforts on the factors that have the greatest impact. It also helps a team communicate the rationale for focusing on certain areas.

Background

Used in the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s "Methods and Tools for Breakthrough Improvement" course, Pareto diagrams have been used by hundreds of health care organizations.


Directions

Download the tool for complete instructions.




Download File
Rated by Users: User rating
Rate This Item