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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See Case Studies

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.