Solve systemic challenges using fishbone diagram

Solve systemic challenges using fishbone diagram

The fishbone diagram (created by Dr. Kauro Ishikawa) is typically used for uncovering systemic problems. It is a causal depiction for finding the root causes of a specific challenge or problem. Resemblance to the skeletal structure of a fish is the reason for calling it the fishbone diagram. It’s also called the Cause-and-effect diagram since it reveals the connection from the effect to the cause. Effects can be traced back to root causes by repeatedly asking ‘Why’ questions. Causes are usually grouped into major categories to identify their sources of variation.

Uncovering the possible causes of an effect provides substantial insights on the occurrence. It assists us for finding a solution to that particular challenge or problem.

The fishbone diagram is useful for solving problems such as:

Manufacturing: defects, quality inconsistency, shop-floor safety …..

Business challenges: product innovation, increasing market presence, finding sales leads, finding sources for products, reducing employee attrition rate, improving bottom line, people productivity …..

How to use:

1.     Write the issue or challenge at the tip of the fish’s mouth. This is the effect for which you are trying to uncover the root cause(s).

2.     Towards each end of the branch, write the potential cause of this effect.

3.     Within a particular branch, you may ask appropriate questions to further uncover smaller cause branches.