Could working with PEOPLE be the key to system improvement?

An effective system requires more than just effective policymaking. All too often, a system looks beautiful on paper, yet doesn’t exist beyond the realm of theory. Good policy sits on shelves, whilst the implementation gap becomes more and more apparent. A deliberate focus is required, with the investment to match, on delivering on system improvement. But systems change = people change. How can we see a greater shift in thinking from externally-led programmes that work with the system, to an approach centered on people within the system itself: using people to both arrive at new solutions, and ensure those solutions are focused around meeting actual needs. An idea that shifts investment patterns from working with the system, to one that works in the system.

eM Consult has started to think around the idea of a System Improvement Cell (SIC) – a team representing a vertical cross-sector of people from the system, who will spend two years deliberately focused on achieving a key indicator of system improvement. The Cell could be exposed to a range of opportunities - from an intensive lab focused on generating action plans; to a two-year action period to deliver on that plan through the cell itself. All of this could be complimented (or supplemented) with a range of up-skilling opportunities, including expert coaching on delivery; access to national and international best practices, knowledge and experts; and be part of a regional play that enables cross-country learning, comparisons and benchmarking. What are your thoughts - does this sound like we're smoking dope, or does it have legs?

By focusing specifically on people – leaders within the system – and strengthening

their capacity to deliver improvement outcomes, this approach could help to generate in-country evidence on what works (with clear recommendations on how to scale the improvement innovation across a whole system); regional comparisons that generate lessons on successful system improvement approaches; and a system itself formed of more motivated and dynamic changemakers, who are delivering on their role to drive improvement and change.

Tell eM Consult what you think by jumping to our contact page - we'd love to hear from you!