Selection and Application of Root Cause Analysis RCA Methods

The RCA rigor puts together the problem complexity (how many different causes can contribute to the problem), whether these causes are a part of the same process, and if they are independent or not.

Problem definition is the first step towards a successful RCA. The problem is what needs to be eliminated or prevented in the future. The more precise the understanding of the problem, the more likely is that effective solutions will be found. Learn what constitutes a proper problem definition.

These is the description of the event that will be used as a Case Study for demonstration of various RCA methods. Available evidence and additional information is listed herein. Please note basic segregation between facts and statements.

Learn about a great tool how all the available information can be classified: KNOT = what we Know, what we Need to know, what is an Opinion, and what we Think we know.

This lesson explains how to perform a 5-Why analysis. When to choose this method, how to conduct the analysis, and what are some key items to pay attention at. It also pinpoints some common pitfalls.

This is a step-by-step analysis of our Case Study defined previously, by utilizing the 5-Why method. Pay close attention to how the Top event is defined (the what, where and when), how the analytical process is structured, and which evidence is available. Also see how the remaining uncertainties are managed.

The lesson summarizes the ideal setup for a 5-Why analysis: the problem, the team, and the process. The conclusion offers key advantages and disadvantages of 5-Why.

This lesson explains structure of the Ishikawa analytical process and a few variations such as 4S or 4P. It guides the student how the fishbone structure is generated and used to depict cause-consequence relationships, and how causes are grouped into various categories and sub-categories. It also highlights some key application issues.

This is a step-by-step analysis of our Case Study defined previously, by utilizing the Ishikawa method. Pay close attention to how the causes are identified under each "M" category, and how this method is capable of revealing some potential causes that were invisible to 5-Why. Also see how certain causes can slip under the radar.

Key learning points from the demonstration of Ishikawa method: what to remember and when to be extremely cautious. A few recommendations on DO's and DONT's, throughout execution of the analysis. Strengths and limitations of the Ishikawa method.

Description of the Cause Mapping method - the underlying principles and guidelines on developing the map with causal relationships. Key items to pay attention to.

Case Study through lenses of the Cause Mapping method. A detailed demonstration of cause-consequence relationships, direct and immediate causes, actions and conditions.

Summary on Cause Mapping - key benefits, application, important rules to remember. Advantages and disadvantages.

Introduction to the Change Analysis. When is it applied and what typically delivers. Connections with other RCA methods.

Step-by-step demonstration of the Change Analysis. Defining the desired outcome, followed by the identification of changes that can directly contribute to the undesirable outcome, classification of changes, and the solutions.

Change Analysis summary - application domains, important rules, advantages and disadvantages.

Learn about the key concepts of Barrier Analysis - prevention, detection, protection, and mitigation. Relationship between barriers and sources of harm. Physical and administrative barriers. Performing the analysis.

Barrier Analysis methodology applied to the Case Study previously defined. A step-by-step guide in the identification of sources of harm, the development of barrier maps, barrier classification and evaluation of effectiveness, and evidence analysis.

A brief summary on the key concepts of Barrier Analysis, method application, barrier types and effectiveness, including a reminder on key strengths and weaknesses of the method.

The importance and classification of evidence, and their impact on the final results. Golden rules of attaching evidence to a cause. The time and space perspective. Beware the pitfall of correlations.

Finding effective solutions - the very reason why every RCA is conducted. Which 3 criteria constitute an effective solution? Understand basic requirements and always ensure ownership over the problem.