Monday, May 14, 2007

Root Cause Analysis - Part II "PLANNING A ROOT CAUSE SESSION"

Part - II PLANNING A ROOT CAUSE SESSION


Planning a Root Cause Session is basically an easy task; it has 4 Phases (Preparation, Analysis, Verification and Implementation) with major activities that need to be accomplished.

The amount of work and time that is required in each phase depends on the amount of data that exists and how experienced the group is in Root Cause Analysis. Cycle Time for conducting a session and getting results will vary depending on the complexity of the problem/process and whether or not the group is Functional (shorter) or Cross-Functional (longer).

Following is a synopsis of each phase and the major steps that are required to conduct a Root Cause Analysis:


PHASE I - PREPARATION

The Preparation Phase is important so that the Analysis Phase can be devoted to brainstorming potential causes to a previously identified problem. Identifying Customer Pain, Developing a Problem Statement and Developing the Main Categories to be brainstormed provides the group direction as to what specifically needs to be analyzed.

PHASE II - ANALYSIS

The Analysis Phase is when the group is led by a facilitator to brainstorm probable causes to the Problem Statement created in Phase I. It is vital that all members be allowed to participate and that all ideas are recorded and considered for analysis.

PHASE III - VERIFICATION

Verification is where the group has identified probable root causes it may be necessary to verify the impact they have on the overall problem. When the root causes have been verified the group can begin suggesting/brainstorming potential solutions.

PHASE IV - IMPLEMENTATION

Implementing Countermeasures/Solutions and monitoring them for effectiveness is critical for the overall success of Root Cause Analysis.


Part III - Breaking Down and Defining the Four Phases -
Preparation, Analysis, Verification and Implementation at

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