The Fishbone Root Cause Analysis Template aids in identifying, analyzing, approving, and implementing corrections to problems, ensuring comprehensive documentation and communication.
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Identify the problem to be analyzed
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Define and agree on the problem statement
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Define the main categories of causes
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Brainstorm potential causes
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Approval: Manager on Potential Causes
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Arrange potential causes under the relevant categories
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Analyze the Fishbone diagram and Identify Root Cause
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Verify Root Cause through data
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Approval: Data Analyst on Root Cause Verification
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Develop a corrective action plan
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Implement the corrective action plan
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Monitor the results of corrective action
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Improve the plan if necessary
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Approval: Quality Assurance on Improvement Plan
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Document the process and outcomes
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Communication of the root cause and action steps to relevant stakeholders
Identify the problem to be analyzed
In this task, you will identify and clearly define the problem that needs to be analyzed. Consider the impact of the problem on the overall process and the desired results. Think about the key challenges faced and potential remedies. It is important to gather all the necessary information to understand the problem fully.
Define and agree on the problem statement
In this task, you will define and agree on a concise problem statement that captures the essence of the problem identified. This statement will provide clarity and ensure everyone is on the same page. It will serve as a reference point throughout the analysis process.
Define the main categories of causes
In this task, you will define the main categories of causes that will be used to organize potential causes in the Fishbone diagram. Think about the different dimensions and factors that can contribute to the problem. Consider categorizing causes based on people, processes, equipment, materials, environment, or management.
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People
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Processes
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Equipment
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Materials
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Environment
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Management
Brainstorm potential causes
In this task, you will brainstorm and generate a list of potential causes that could contribute to the problem. Encourage creativity and think beyond obvious causes. Consider both direct and indirect causes. This step aims to gather a range of possibilities for further analysis.
Approval: Manager on Potential Causes
Will be submitted for approval:
Brainstorm potential causes
Will be submitted
Arrange potential causes under the relevant categories
In this task, you will organize the potential causes identified in the previous task under the relevant categories. Look for commonalities and patterns to group causes together. This step helps create a systematic representation of the causes to facilitate analysis and identification of the root cause.
Analyze the Fishbone diagram and Identify Root Cause
In this task, you will analyze the Fishbone diagram created from the organized causes. Examine each category and potential causes to identify the most probable root cause. Consider the impact of each cause and its relationship with the problem statement. The goal is to pinpoint the primary cause that, when addressed, will have the greatest impact on resolving the problem.
Verify Root Cause through data
In this task, you will verify the identified root cause through data analysis. Gather relevant data to support or invalidate the hypothesis. Look for correlations, trends, or statistical evidence that links the root cause to the problem. Data-driven verification adds credibility to the analysis and ensures confident decision-making.
Approval: Data Analyst on Root Cause Verification
Will be submitted for approval:
Verify Root Cause through data
Will be submitted
Develop a corrective action plan
In this task, you will develop a corrective action plan to address the root cause and eliminate or mitigate its effects. Consider the specific actions required to resolve the problem. Identify the responsible parties, deadlines, and necessary resources. A well-defined plan helps ensure effective implementation and timely resolution.
Implement the corrective action plan
In this task, you will implement the corrective action plan developed in the previous task. Execute the planned actions as per the defined timeline. Monitor the progress and ensure all relevant parties are engaged. Effective implementation is crucial for achieving the desired outcomes.
Monitor the results of corrective action
In this task, you will monitor and evaluate the results of the implemented corrective actions. Assess whether the problem has been resolved or mitigated to an acceptable level. Measure the effectiveness of the actions taken and gather feedback from stakeholders. Continuous monitoring helps identify any gaps or areas for further improvement.
Improve the plan if necessary
In this task, you will evaluate the effectiveness of the corrective action plan and identify any necessary improvements. Reflect on the results and feedback received. Determine if additional actions or adjustments are required to fully address the root cause and prevent future occurrences. This step aims to optimize the plan for better outcomes.
Approval: Quality Assurance on Improvement Plan
Will be submitted for approval:
Improve the plan if necessary
Will be submitted
Document the process and outcomes
In this task, you will document the entire process of conducting the fishbone root cause analysis, including the problem statement, potential causes, Fishbone diagram, root cause identification, corrective action plan, implementation details, and outcomes. Proper documentation ensures knowledge transfer, reference for future analysis, and historical records.
Communication of the root cause and action steps to relevant stakeholders
In this task, you will communicate the identified root cause and the corresponding corrective action steps to the relevant stakeholders. Share the analysis findings, root cause, and the proposed solution. Provide clear instructions and engage stakeholders in the resolution process. Effective communication helps ensure alignment and support for the implementation of the corrective actions.