Question

What is a root cause analysis and what are the “Five Whys”

Answer 1

Root Cause.

Process of identifying root cause of a problem and make solution are called root cause analysis.

Benefits.

* Root cause analysis is used to identify the root cause of a problem.

* This will help us to understand how to make solution or compensate from an underlying issue.

* We learn how to prevent future issues or how to get repeat success.

Principles.

- Focus on correct and remedying root cause.

- Never ignore the importance of treating symptoms.

- We should realize that there will be multiple causes.

- We should focus on how and why and not on who is responsible.

- we should be methodical and find concrete cause effect evidence.

- Provide enough information to get a correct action.

- With the root cause make interventions to avoid same errors in future.

5 WHYs.

The 5 why root cause analysis is used to identify a problem by asking 5 times why. By asking 5 times why we get the root cause of a problem. This is used to understand the cause and effect of a problem to avoid similar occurences.

Steps.   

1, Assemble a team. First we have to assemble a team and we should understand that everyone involving in this team are affected by the problem in some manner. Divide the team as small groups for shifts, departments or regions. Include a facilitator to manage meetings.

2,Brief the team. For the purpose of exercise we should breif the team. Use white paper or white board instead of computers. The facilitator write the problems and make a cross discussion,help to formulate a comprehensive problem statement.

3, Ask why's. First the facilitator should ask the first why. Encourage to get answers based on facts rather than assumptions. Focus should be given on root cause not on symptoms or complaints some time there will be more than one root cause. The root cause should be a short phrase or one word rather than lengthy statements.

4, Repeat four times. Each problem we get in the previous step should refraim into a question. The facilitator should demonstrate the cause effect relationship. Repeat this step four times until we get the root cause.

5, Arrive at a solution and follow up. In the final stage we get the root cause of a problem and we will make solutions to overcome it. This study will keep for follow up process.

This technique will help to solve problems without the risk of hurting sentiments. The team should avoid listening errors or employee ineffiencies.