Assignment 4: Root Cause Analysis (5%)

Purpose

Root cause analysis helps to focus problem solving efforts on identifying why the issue is occurring in the first place. Instinct often leads analysts and stakeholders to skip this step, and begin by suggesting solutions to a problem. But without understanding root cause effectively, this assumption can result in an unsuccessful solution. Understanding the root cause well ensures that the solution can be correctly and effectively aligned with the problem.

In the context of the Solution Assessment and Validation course, this technique is particularly useful when evaluating the limitations of the solution and the enterprise, so that the business can then work towards improving the value being delivered.

How to Proceed

1. Form or join a group with 1 or 2 other classmates.
2. Ask your partner(s) to provide a problem that they have experienced, or are experiencing, that is as unique and specific to themselves as possible.
   1. In a group of 3, Student A will analyze Student B's problem, Student B will analyze Student C's and Student C would analyze Student A's.
3. Help your partner with their problem, by performing a root cause analysis.
   1. Write a brief description of the problem on a Fishbone diagram using the provided template.
   2. Identify appropriate categories for the causes (people, process, tools, policies, or other categories, as you see fit); these will be the main "ribs" on the diagram.
   3. Use the "5 Why's" technique to drill down deeper with each cause identified, and add each response as a branch to the appropriate "rib" on the Fishbone.
      1. Each "cause" should be brief and simply stated (10 words or less).
   4. Provide a summary of your conclusions on the most likely cause of the problem (100 words or less). Is there data about the issue to support your conclusions?
   5. Briefly explain (50 words or less) why this approach could help the analyst to remain objective.