Team Input
Definition: Team input is the active involvement of all team members in contributing ideas, feedback, concerns, or suggestions during clinical, administrative, or strategic decision-making.
Importance
- Encourages inclusive, well-informed decisions.
- Improves team morale and ownership.
- Promotes early identification of risks or inefficiencies.
- Fosters interprofessional collaboration.
- Drives innovation and quality improvement.
When to Encourage Team Input
- During protocol or workflow redesign
- In morbidity & mortality reviews
- During daily huddles or rounds
- In staff meetings or debriefings
- While planning teaching or academic activities
Example
Operating room technicians highlight gaps in instrument availability. Their input leads to a revised surgical tray checklist, reducing delays and frustration.
Barriers to Effective Input
- Rigid hierarchies
- Time pressure or rushed meetings
- Fear of reprisal or being ignored
- Lack of follow-up on suggestions
Strategies to Encourage Input
- Flatten hierarchies during team discussions.
- Create safe, structured spaces (e.g. suggestion boxes, anonymous surveys).
- Acknowledge and act on valid contributions.
- Ensure diverse roles are represented in decision-making.