The 7 Pillars of Improvement at Scale Hub

Michael Pain defined the ‘seven pillars of improvement at scale’ back in 2018. The pillars, which have been used by dozens of trusts to help inform how they shape and define their improvement model at scale, are a set of clear principles that can be readily used and adapted to context. The simplicity of the model is intentional, in that it creates a framework, sets outs some clear characteristics and ‘look fors’, and signposts to ideas that can help trust leaders make their improvement model their own. As always, what is shared here is a starting point for discussion, ideas and practice. We are grateful for the wide range of thinkers and expert practitioners who have contributed their perspectives and experiences in the documentation below – including Paul Ainsworth, Debbie Clinton, and David Horn – all of whom have substantial experience and track record of leading improvement at scale with success. We’re also grateful for inputs and insights from beyond the sector, not least from those leading improvement at scale in the NHS and in the social care sector. Take a look at our wide range of resources, developed over a number of years, below.