Question

question

one of the commonly used tools for root cause analysis is the fishbone - or cause and effect - diagram.

what are the best practices for using this tool?

• use the diagram to offer solutions to the problem or effect under consideration
• use it to uncover the potential causes related to a particular effect
• ensure that the number of causes generated during the brainstorming session does not exceed 20
• begin by developing a problem statement that the team agrees on

Explanation:

Understand the purpose of a fishbone diagram

The fishbone diagram (also known as an Ishikawa or cause-and-effect diagram) is a structured brainstorming tool. It is designed to systematically identify and organize potential causes of a specific problem (the "effect") to find its root causes. It is not used to directly offer solutions, but rather to map out the landscape of possible causes.

Evaluate the first option

The first option states: "Use the diagram to offer solutions to the problem or effect under consideration." This is incorrect because the primary purpose of a fishbone diagram is cause identification, not solution generation. Solutions are developed after the root causes have been verified.

Evaluate the second option

The second option states: "Use it to uncover the potential causes related to a particular effect." This aligns perfectly with the core definition and best practice of using a cause-and-effect diagram. It helps teams brainstorm and categorize potential causes.

Evaluate the third option

The third option states: "Ensure that the number of causes generated during the brainstorming session does not exceed 20." This is incorrect. Brainstorming sessions should be open and expansive; placing an arbitrary limit of 20 causes restricts the team's ability to thoroughly explore all potential factors.

Evaluate the fourth option

The fourth option states: "Begin by developing a problem statement that the team agrees on." This is a fundamental best practice. Before mapping causes, the team must clearly define the "effect" (the problem statement) at the head of the fishbone so everyone is brainstorming around the exact same issue.

Synthesize the correct choices

Based on the analysis of Six Sigma Tools and Quality Control methodologies, the two correct best practices for using a fishbone diagram are:

1. Use it to uncover the potential causes related to a particular effect.
2. Begin by developing a problem statement that the team agrees on.

Answer:

• Use the diagram to offer solutions to the problem or effect under consideration
• Use it to uncover the potential causes related to a particular effect (Correct answer)
• Ensure that the number of causes generated during the brainstorming session does not exceed 20
• Begin by developing a problem statement that the team agrees on (Correct answer)