The “Quality Triangle”
The “Quality Triangle” describes the theory that within a project, there are three axes- cost, quality, and time- of which one is usually fixed, while the other two have an inverse relationship.
A quick google suggests that while many claim that such a trade-off isn’t necessary, the uncomfortable truth seems to be that both most theories are likely to be true, for most people, most of the time.
Annoying as that is, being conscious of the trade-offs and allowing for them or even actually planning for them, might be a sensible idea…
Scott, Katy, and I recently had a conversation about how we do this at Sound Experience. At a time of increasing costs, we still don't want to add a surcharge to the ACC funding for our ultrasound examinations.
Quality is our fixed variable
We feel it is important that good quality musculoskeletal diagnosis is available to anybody who needs it.
Our referrers confidently send patients to us, knowing that the quality of the examination and the report they receive reflecting that examination answers their clinical questions.
Cost is our “low” value
Of the two remaining, inversely related, variables, cost is our “low” value.
When I first walked into the YMCA in Mount Albert, I was surprised to find the Sound Experience people had decided to base themselves in the heart of the community; they decided not to invest in real estate, but rather to invest in good quality accessible healthcare.
Time is our trade-off
We do take time to get through our examinations. It’s not a great feeling to keep people waiting, but if the choice is to stay on time, we risk compromising quality.
If you’re curious, here is our Sound Experience pricing.