What does the 85-15 Rule suggest regarding errors in a system?

The 85-15 Rule suggests that a significant majority of errors within a system, specifically around 85%, are attributable to systemic failures rather than individual human mistakes. This concept emphasizes the importance of understanding that many errors are not solely the result of human actions, but rather arise from flaws or inadequacies within the system itself, including processes, technologies, or organizational structures.

By emphasizing system failures, the rule encourages organizations, especially in healthcare, to focus on improving system design, processes, and protocols to reduce the chances of error. This perspective is crucial for effective risk management, as it shifts the focus from assigning blame to individuals and instead encourages a culture of system improvement and preventive measures. This understanding can lead to more sustainable solutions for minimizing error rates and enhancing overall performance in healthcare settings.