In evaluating a new workflow, what is a balancing measure used for?

• A. Measure only cost
• B. Detect unintended effects on other parts of the system
• C. Replace outcome metrics
• D. Predict patient satisfaction with no data

Answer: (B)

Balancing measures are used to detect unintended effects on other parts of the system when evaluating a new workflow. When you make a change, the main outcome may improve, but that improvement can shift problems elsewhere—like increasing staff overtime, delaying other processes, or lowering patient satisfaction in another area. A balancing measure tracks these side effects so you can see the true net impact of the change on overall system performance. For example, you might monitor staff overtime or patient satisfaction alongside the primary outcome to ensure the workflow doesn’t just move problems around. The other options don’t fit because they focus narrowly on cost, or on replacing or predicting outcomes without data; balancing measures are about understanding ripple effects across the system.