Root Cause Analysis Series- Step 2 (Option B): Cause and Effect Diagram (Fishbone Diagram)

Root cause analysis (RCA) consists of a group of problem-solving methods aiming to uncover the core causes of an identified problem. Once root causes are determined, teams then select appropriate, well-matched solutions based on a number of factors. Conducting a root cause analysis is ideally a collaborative effort among teams, where a variety of tools and strategies are used to facilitate the process of uncovering the root of the identified problem or challenge to be addressed.

There are several methods and associated tools for the process of root cause analysis, each with a unique set of benefits, drawbacks, and situations where its use is more appropriate. Also known as a fishbone diagram, “the cause and effect diagram was designed to sort the potential causes of a problem while organizing the causal relationships.1” Teams can use this tool to further investigate root causes related to the identified problem.

The steps in this toolkit are:

Step 1: Problem Definition

Step 2: Problem Exploration (An introduction to causal analysis is provided, alongside 3 options for completion)

Step 3: Implementing Solutions

Step 4: Testing Chosen Strategies

1 Doggett, A. M. (2005). Root Cause Analysis: A framework for tool selection. Quality Management Journal, 12(4), 34–45. https://doi.org/10.1080/10686967.2005.11919269