Purpose Design Method: A Systems Approach to Capacity Building and Lifelong Learning

Dr. William Bozeman, Professor Emeritus, University of Central Florida

Abstract

The purpose of this workshop is to explore the use of systems theory and systems approaches to the planning and design of capacity building, capacity development, and lifelong learning. Through an understanding of systems and systems approaches, healthcare practitioners may more effectively create partnerships, health systems, learning communities, and lifelong learning structures. The processes of knowledge synthesis, interpretation, and dissemination is not a new concern or problem. It has puzzled scholars and practitioners alike for many years in many fields ranging from the military, to education, to the healthcare professions. Through the use of systems planning, these processes (that are an integral part of capacity building) can lead to a realization of personal, professional, social, and economic goals for healthcare practitioners and administrators.

If healthcare professionals or organizations are to function more effectively and realize operational improvements, three important concerns must be addressed: (a) purpose must be clear, (b) a plan for achieving the purpose must be available, and (c) information must be accessible when required during the improvement process. It is important to note that often this process assumes that some grand aggregation of knowledge must occur prior to capacity development, and lifelong learning systems design. In reality, only knowledge relevant to the particular problem or need must be accessible.

A strategy to be presented in this pre-symposium workshop is termed Purpose Design Methodor PDM, a systems approach to planning capacity development and lifelong learning for healthcare practitioners and administrators. The strategy focuses on purpose orientation and systems methods and includes five phases: (a) Purpose determination, (b) Ideal and purposeful solutions development, (c) Target plan development, (d) Specification of solution system details and implementation strategies, and (e) Solution implementation and evaluation.
The structure and detail associated with a solution is enhanced through the use of a systems model and systems matrix. The systems matrix that will be presented includes eight elements (purpose, inputs, outputs, sequence, environment, people, physical catalysts, and information) in five dimensions (fundamental, values, rates, measures, control/evaluation). This component is key to overall clarity of a potentially complex framework leading to capacity development and lifelong learning. Participants will have opportunities to practice these skills in small group settings leading to professional improvement that will lead to personal enrichment.

Learning Objectives

1. Discuss the Purpose Design Method (PDM) systems planning approach
2. Apply PDM to planning and design of select scenarios
3. Discuss a systems model for specification of plan detail
4. Employ PDM phases to a practitioner problem
5. Discuss procedures for maximizing efficiency of planning

Workshop Outline

Time	Topic
9:00am – 9.40am	Overview of Purpose Design Method (PDM)
9:40am – 10:00am	Discussion of Nominal Group Technique
10:00am – 10:15am	Coffee Break
10:15am – 10:45am	Introduction to Systems Matrix
10:45am - 11:00am	Discussion of Example of Systems Matrix
11:00am – 11:30am	Small Group Application of PDM
11:30am – 11:50am	Review and Critique of Applications
11:50am – 12:00pm	Summary and Q&A