Trending Data

Trending Data Over Time: Run Charts and Statistical Process Control

A RUN CHART displays data in a graph format as results occur over time. So, the y axis (vertical) represents the result you are measuring, and the x axis (horizontal) represents time. In this project, for example, a run chart could display length-of-stay averages or rehospitalization rates on a monthly basis (see example).

Run charts allow the opportunity to readily identify variation in data that suggest changes in a process over time. A run chart may contain a straight line showing the average in order to more readily visualize deviations.

Run charts can be modified into control charts using statistical process control by placing the control limits of the process.

View examples of run charts

BOOSTing Care Transitions Resource Room Project Team
This resource room is sponsored in part by an unrestricted educational grant from the John A. Hartford Foundation, Inc.

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