Root Cause Analysis: Basic Tools & Techniques

Do you have recurring problems that are costing you time and money? Unresolved problems do more than aggravate. They can increase costs, lower quality, and drive customers away. Plus, quality management processes, such as ISO 9001, require organizations to have a corrective and preventive action process in place. Root cause analysis is integral to the success of any corrective action or problem-solving process. Unfortunately, root cause analysis is an often maligned, misunderstood, and misapplied process. Instead of viewing root cause analysis as an opportunity for improvement, many see it only as admission that things have gone wrong. Root cause analysis should be seen as an opportunity, not a chore. This practical guide offers proven techniques for using root cause analysis in your organization. Inside, you’ll find: What root cause analysis is; when (and when not) to use root cause analysis; who should participate in the root cause analysis process; tools and techniques to aid in the root cause analysis process; how to construct a root cause analysis checklist; and examples of how a well-run root cause analysis process works.