ABSTRACT
This chapter describes what is meant by key performance indicators (KPIs), and considers their role in the management and continuous improvement of in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratories. With very many KPIS to select between, we consider what makes a powerful laboratory KPI, which input variables and outcome measures are most effective, and how consensus and expert panel publications relating to KPIs can be useful and where they may have limitations. It must be remembered that IVF laboratory KPIs are there as an indicative tool for quality control and monitoring, and that, within the laboratory, KPIs can really only be relied upon as an effective tool, if standard operating procedures are followed and reference populations are used. Examples of tools to support and visualize KPIs are provided throughout this chapter.
