The Systems Research Organizing Model: A Conceptual Perspective for Facilities Design

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to (1) demonstrate the utility of the Systems Research Organizing Model (SROM) for evidence-based design; (2) explicate the SROM; and (3) demonstrate how the SROM can advance the science of healthcare design. Background: Grounded in systems science and adapted from the Quality Health Outcomes Model, the SROM was originally designed to assist in the organization of nursing systems research. It is useful for research in other fields as well because it serves as a potential framework for new investigations, allows delineation of key factors in previous research studies, and allows for the synthesis of a body of research knowledge. By means of the latter function, it helps identify knowledge that is ready to be translated to the practice environment. Model Design: The SROM is a fully justified model with four core constructs: client, context, action focus, and outcomes. Feedback loops in the model reflect the interrelatedness of the core constructs and recognize the complex nature of the healthcare environment. Conclusions: The SROM may be useful for organizing research studies of interest to healthcare design scientists and practitioners. This framework has promise for organizing studies, identifying gaps in current research studies, and synthesizing multiple studies for application to practice.