The core of root cause analysis (RCA) is to properly identify the underlying problems of an issue. It is one of the most widely used retrospective methods for detecting issues. RCA uses a systematic approach to identify both active errors and latent errors which contribute to adverse events. RCA helps organizations avoid the tendency to single out one factor to arrive at the most expedient (but generally incomplete) resolution. It also helps to avoid treating symptoms rather than true, underlying problems that contribute to a problem or event. More often than not, we tend to assess blame and focus on just the mistakes made by individuals.

Most RCA experts believe that achievement of total prevention by a single intervention is not always possible, and see RCA as an ongoing process that strives for continuous improvement. It is not a one-size-fits-all methodology. There are many different tools, processes, and philosophies of accomplishing RCA. In fact, it was born out of a need to analyze various enterprise activities. RCA should follow a specified protocol that begins with data collection and reconstruction of the event in question through record review and participant interviews. A multidisciplinary team should analyze the sequence of events leading to the error, with the goals of identifying how the event occurred.

The outcome of the root cause analysis is an action plan that the organization intends to implement in order to reduce the risk of similar events occurring in the future. The plan should address responsibility for implementation, oversight, pilot testing as appropriate, timelines, and strategies for measuring the effectiveness of actions. Organizations can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations through addressing the root issues of problems. For the purpose of an RCA, the focus should be on systems”how to improve systems to prevent the occurrence of events or problems. It involves digging into the organization’s systems to find new ways to do things.

For more information and training on RCA, click here.

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Mistakes or causes for mistakes is a universal problem; unfortunately when we as humans are confronted with a recurring problem or issue, it is because we are usually in the middle of the time crunch of the daily processes. The first thing we usually do is to put a bandaid on the issue so we can hurry up and finish. This action gets us through the day, which of course is the reason the problem is recurring. We might think we know why this problem is happening and recurring but you really don’t know. The problem might show up when you noticed it, but like the name states, it’s the root cause of that problem that you are after, and like it implies it will take some digging.

In our Root Cause Analysis training, you will:

• Know what to do when problems occur
• Define, validate and decide if the problem should be solved
• Use a team approach and understand team dynamics
• Take appropriate interim actions
• Choose the most appropriate Root Cause Analysis methods for the situation
• Determine and implement the best sustainable solution

Topics covered:

• What Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is, why we need it and when to use it
• Problem-Solving Process Flowchart (8D Roadmap)
• Problems vs. Opportunities
• Preventative Practices
• Problem Detection & Specification
• Problem Anatomy = |Should – Actual|*Risk
• Causes to Determine
• Cause Structures
• Situation Appraisal
• Known vs. Unknown Cause
• Using Facts, Evidence & Assumptions
• Interim Actions
• Using a Team Approach
• Risk Analysis Tools
• Importance of Language
• Cause-Effect Mapping Methods
• Potential Cause Filters and Generators
• Human Error
• Choosing the Best Solution Profile
• Solution Validation
• Exercises & Case Studies

Once you know how it is done, you can apply this to anything you are having a recurring problem with, and wish to get to the bottom of what is actually causing the problem.

This is a live virtual class with an actual instructor you can interact with to answer your questions. This is a 3-day event — please go to our website to register for your preferred dates. For more information on this or our other Lean Six Sigma courses or services, please visit 6sigma.com. 

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Why Is Root Cause Analysis so Important?

Root cause analysis can single-handedly eliminate an issue; and by eliminating the issue your business will run more efficiently. You’ll be able to give more focus to your customer base, because the issue that was causing issues for your business is gone.

A Simple Basic Step-by-Step Root Cause Analysis (RCA)

• Define the Problem: Be specific and as detailed as possible.
• Understand the Problem: Use actual data having to do with the problem. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the problem; this will ensure the correct root cause will be found and eliminated.
• Immediate Action: The most obvious issue is usually located close to the “effect.”
• Corrective Action: Identify the most likely underlying causes of the problem, and prioritize action taken from that point.
• Confirm the Solution: After you’ve done all the preliminaries and have implemented the solution, make sure you confirm the success of the solution.

This would ensure that the new rules and methods would be established, thus avoiding the same problem from recurring.

So, What Tools Are Needed in Conducting a Root Cause Analysis?

Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagram: This can help identify causes of the issue

Pareto Chart: This is a bar graph that visually shows significance of the elements involved.

Scatter Diagram: This graphs numerical data to help look for a common link.

5 Whys: This is by far the most creative and a very simple tool to use. You state your problem and start asking why until you get to the root cause. The simplicity is what makes this a genius tool.

We offer root cause analysis training in several cities. It is the most comprehensive course to date. Among many topics, you will learn:

• The Problem-Solving Process Flowchart (8D Roadmap)
• Flowcharts
• Problem vs. Opportunities
• Cause & Effect Mapping Methods
• Using Facts, Evidence, and Assumptions

For more information about our root cause analysis coursework, please visit 6sigma.com.

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