Collaborative Improvement Design (CID)
HBOM’s signature human-centered design framework for accelerating healthcare improvement
What is CID?
Collaborative Improvement Design (CID) is a hybrid framework that integrates principles from traditional quality improvement (QI) and project management processes with Human-Centered Design (HCD). It was developed over 3 years of practical application in healthcare systems across the state of Michigan to help teams co-design, test, and implement low-cost, high-impact solutions to complex healthcare challenges.
QUICK LINKS
CID Handout
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Design Project Charter
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Journey Mapping Template
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CID provides a structured-yet-flexible process that promotes:
- Deep learning from human experiences
- Co-development across collaborator groups
- Creativity and innovation grounded in evidence
- Rapid testing, reflection, and refinement
Rather than focusing on a problem or hypothesis, CID centers around a driving question:
“How might we…?”
This guiding inquiry reframes challenges as opportunities and encourages innovation and collaboration within quality improvement.

