A promising local result is a reason to examine context
It is not automatic proof that a change should spread.
Before extending an experiment, consider how the workflow, roles, resources, and constraints differ elsewhere. Make the next decision explicit, identify who owns it, and record what evidence or local review would change the decision. A result from one small sample does not establish that a change is suitable across services.
Four reasonable next decisions
Use the rationale and evidence needed to choose a proportionate next step.
| Decision | When it fits | Evidence and coordination |
|---|---|---|
| Repeat | The question remains useful; repeat the same bounded test to see whether the pattern recurs. | Keep the setting and measure definition stable; set another review point and record the new sample. |
| Adapt | A specific workflow difference or observation suggests the test needs a small change. | Name the difference, involve the workflow owner, and state what the next test will reveal. |
| Share for discussion | Another team may learn from the approach, but local fit has not been established. | Share the scope, definitions, observed results, and limitations; invite local review rather than recommending automatic adoption. |
| Stop | The question is no longer useful, the test is not workable, or the evidence does not justify more testing. | Record the reason, unresolved question, and any handoff needed to the accountable local role. |
Worked decision: adapt and repeat
Why the fictional team did not spread immediately
Harborview's week-four sample rose from 12 of 20 to 15 of 20 entries with a named next owner. The result came from one meeting workflow and a small sample; the team had not checked how another service records ownership or whether the prompt affects meeting time.
- Decision: adapt and repeat in the same bounded workflow.
- Adaptation: revise the meeting prompt so the facilitator asks for the next owner before closing the discussion.
- Review: use the same measure definition and record team-reported note-completion time as a separate consideration.
What sharing would mean
The team may share the example as a question and a learning artifact, with its scope and limitations attached. Any other team would need to assess its own workflow and use its approved local processes.
- Include the numerator, denominator, period, source, and as-of context.
- Describe what is observed separately from the team's explanation.
- Route regulated, safety-critical, or sensitive questions to the appropriate trained role.