Root Cause Analysis with Corrective Action Overview

Root cause analysis involves searching backwards from an undesirable effect (or problem) to its cause(s) and addressing those causes.

• The term “Root Cause” implies that there is a single cause for a problem.
• Actually many problems have multiple causes that interact or work together to trigger the event.

The root cause analysis task is to:

• Identify potential causes.
• Determine which cause or causes are root causes.
• Address those root causes to ensure the effect (the problem) does not recur.

Why is root cause analysis so important?

• If a problem has occurred once, it most likely will occur again (unless something is done to prevent its recurrence.)
• However, if the root cause is found (and it is addressed,) future occurrences of the same problem CAN BE PREVENTED!
• Root cause analysis is the key to preventing future problems.

Can all problems be prevented?

• Probably not – BUT – most recurring problems can be prevented if the root cause is found and addressed.

Four keys to successful root cause analysis:

• Use a step-wise approach:
  • Standardize the approach throughout the organization.
• Adopt fact-based decision making:
  • Don’t accept opinions, guesses or hunches.
• Test to confirm:
  • If the root cause has been “found,” test to confirm you have indeed identified the root cause or causes.
• Implement permanent corrective solutions
  • Does the solution answer the “root cause question?”  (The root cause question: Does this cause explain all that we know about what the problem is, as well as all we know about what the problem is not?)
  • Is the solution practical, feasible and cost-effective?
  • Is the solution robust and sustainable?