When asked, unit-based team members say great sponsors:

• Place Kaiser Permanente members and patients at the center of work; 


• Are available and accessible; 


• Help problem solve;


• Obtain resources and break down barriers; 


• Are cheerleaders; 


• Know what's expected of teams and communicate in ways teams understand; 


• Are familiar with the programs and initiatives to which UBTs are accountable; 


• Support teams in learning new ways of doing things; 


• Help teams develop skill with the Plan, Do, Study, Act cycle and other performance improvement tools, while developing an understanding of when and where tools are most appropriately used; 


• Pay attention to and monitor performance, rewarding progress and success; 


• Model teamwork and foster team development;


• Set clear expectations and hold teams accountable for results.