Fisbhone diagrams are a visual way to examine cause and effect. More specifically, it is another tool in your arsenal to do a root cause analysis. As a leader, getting to the root cause of problems will be a large portion of your role - whether it is a process or a personnel interaction. How do you get to the root cause?

I do not expect you to develop a fishbone diagram, simply be familiar with its general purpose and intent. What is more important is understanding when or how to apply it. Essentially, your role in the process is an investigator - asking "why" five times is a tried and true method. In practice, there is usually a facilitator who helps in this process.

Think of a time at work/school where there is a gap for which you are looking to close. How would you apply the "five why's"? Do you see yourself using this tool?