Problems in daily workflow or management can lead to loss of productivity and negatively impact the standing and bottom line for companies and organizations. In such a situation, merely symptomatic damage control is not enough; finding, addressing, and resolving the root cause is the only solution. This is where Root Cause Analysis comes in. It is an effective process to track the underlying causes that lead to recurring loss of efficiency and prevent them from happening again.
What is Root Cause Analysis and Why is it Performed?
A Root Cause Analysis is a detailed, systematic, and structured process for identifying the underlying root causes behind loss of productivity, undesired events, or other such issues. It focuses on isolating the root causes that triggered the chain of events leading to problems in efficiency in the daily workings of an organization, company, or institution.
A Root Cause Analysis is performed to address a problem at its very core. It enables the management to not only prevent the problem from ever occurring again, but also improve productivity and efficiency. A Root Cause Analysis aims for the following goals:
- To identify the specific underlying cause of the problem
- Offer solutions that will inhibit recurrence
- Enhance efficiency
- Improve process reliability
- Ensure safety and quality in daily workflow
- Assist in future learning and adaptability
There are several types of Root Cause Analysis or Root Cause Analysis, specific to the issue at hand. Some examples of common types of Root Cause Analysis are:
- Production-based Root Cause Analysis
- System-based Root Cause Analysis
- Failure-based Root Cause Analysis
- Safety-based Root Cause Analysis
- Process-based Root Cause Analysis
The Importance of Root Cause Analysis
Root Cause Analysis is essential in streamlining the inner workings of any business. At times, it is very difficult to isolate the real reason behind the loss of productivity or other such problems. Only focusing on the superficial manifestations of a deeper issue negatively impacts profit margins, efficiency, and the bottom line. This approach also doesn’t prevent recurrences from happening. The process of Root Cause Analysis is important because:
- It prevents recurrences of the same problem
- Enables better productivity levels
- Assists in quick and decisive decision-making
- Prevents additional costs or loss of efficiency
- Improves workplace safety
- Helps maintain a culture of learning from mistakes
Methods of Root Cause Analysis
Root Cause Analysis technology is a godsend for businesses and corporations, as it assists in the timely management of disastrous events. It is a type of risk analysis that has proven to be effective time and time again. Common examples of Root Cause Analysis methods include:
5 “Whys”
A 5 Whys analysis is one of the highly effective methods for identifying root causes of simple to intermediate-level problems. It uses an almost child-like approach of asking “Why” a problem occurred again and again, until the root cause is identified. This technique bases its success on connecting the chain of events that led to a problem with relationships to other contributing factors.
Fishbone
As Root Cause Analysis techniques go, a Fishbone Diagram is a fairly common one. The name Fishbone comes from the distinct shape of this diagram, which traces a chain of events from multiple viewpoints to find the exact underlying cause. A Fishbone RCA is more suited to complex issues where multiple factors, such as human, process, or system, are involved.
FTA – Fault Tree Analysis
To evaluate complex relationships in machine-based or digital systems, Root Cause Analysis methods like FTA are used. It is best to use FTA when the outcomes of a failure are known, and the intent is to find faults and effectively address them to prevent recurrences.
Pareto
Pareto Analysis uses data analytics in real time to identify the occurrence rates of problems and their overall impact. The Pareto Charts or Analysis help identify a series of potential causes that lead to a failure.
Advantages of Root Cause Analysis
The advantages of Root Cause Analysis in the current fast-paced, digital business landscape include:
- Successful problem-solving to ensure workflow and system reliability
- Effective and streamlined daily processes
- Cost-effective and low-maintenance outputs
- Less downtime
- Improvement in decision-making capabilities
- Better performance indices
- Increase in overall scalability
These versatile benefits of Root Cause Analysis allow businesses and organizations to stay on the path of continuous learning, innovation, and improvement. Wisera Technology offers its clients actionable data analytics and other digital solutions to enhance growth and performance. By identifying the main causes behind a failure, Wisera’s digital solutions lead to an increase in operational efficiency and ensure long-term success.
Stop worrying about superficial symptoms – Focus on the root cause! Partner with Wisera and gain access to digital solutions that work smarter for you!
