This section discusses the main components of measure conceptualization: information gathering and business case development, each of which plays a critical role throughout the Measure Lifecycle.

Measure conceptualization initiates the Measure Lifecycle. It includes identification of measure concept(s) by researching and scanning the environment. This exploration encompasses researching a variety of sources, analyzing measure gaps, conducting other types of analyses, developing a business case, and engaging multiple interested parties. The end goal of measure conceptualization is a meaningful, well-researched measure concept with well-defined initial components (e.g., target/initial population, denominator, numerator).

To develop a successful measure concept, a measure developer should

• Identify the end goal of the measure, e.g., this measure seeks to improve XX.
• Identify the intended end use of the measure, e.g., is this for hospital quality reporting program, population health/Accountable Care Organizations, or solely for quality improvement projects.
• Explicitly identify a need for the measure as a high priority area.
• Prioritize outcome and patient-reported outcome measures, healthcare access for all, and digital measures.
• Identify how to collect the measure data through standardized electronic data elements.