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Solve Your Problems Like A Pro!

Jan 20 • 4 min read

Root Cause Analysis / Problem-Solving training course is based on the Eight Disciplines (8D) approach to structured problem-solving. Having a disciplined methodology creates a foundation for learning, measuring problem-solving progress, and helping to manage expectations during crisis situations, large or small. This training course will spend time on root cause analysis using some common quality tools and techniques.

Learning Objectives

Understand the importance of performing root cause analysis.
Identify the root cause of a problem using the problem-solving process.
Understand the application of basic quality tools in the problem-solving process.
Compare results from a structured problem-solving approach versus past practice.
Streamline your problem-solving process while improving relationships with your internal and external customers.
Learn a standardized approach that you can apply across an entire organization for fixing problems permanently.

Team-Based Problem Solving

Addresses Complicated Problems:

The team approach works best when the problem as well as its associated information, is complicated and beyond what one member is reasonably capable of knowing.

Addresses Special Cause and Common Cause Problems:

The 8-D process was designed to work best with special cause problems. However, it can also be associated with common cause problems and improvement actions like those associated with a QOS.

Uses Cross-functional Inputs:

Working in a cross-functional team means that each problem solver no longer needs to know all the technical details about how things work. Necessary information is available from a variety of team members.

Promotes Standardization:

A team approach to problem-solving leads to a common language. This promotes effectiveness, consistency, time savings, and change control.

Designed for Problems with Unknown Root Causes:

The problem-solving process is used to identify the root causes of problems and provide corrective action.

The 8-D Problem Solving Process

The Eight Disciplines (8-D) comprise a method of resolving a problem when the cause of the problem is unknown.

Encompasses the Entire Process:

As a Problem-Solving Process, it is a sequence of events that should be followed from the moment a problem or improvement opportunity is evident.

Facilitates Timely Solutions

When correctly followed, it helps to facilitate a timely resolution to the problem.

Provides a Reporting Format

1. The 8-D Report is a living document.
2. Progress to date.
3. An action plan for completion.
4. The 8-D Report is used to communicate progress on resolving a problem. It may serve as a reference for future efforts.

Establishes a Standard Practice

1. An emphasis on facts, where problem-solving, decision making, planning are driven and monitored by hard factual data.
2. A commitment to solving the origin of the problem, not just masking the effects of the problem.
3. An enforced discipline.

Team Problem Solving Objectives

Form the Team:

Establish a small group of people with the process/product knowledge, allocated time, authority, and skill in the required technical disciplines to solve the problem and implement corrective actions. The group must have a designated champion.

Describe the Problem:

Specify the internal/external customer problem by identifying in quantifiable terms the who, what, when, where, why, how, how many(5W2H) for the problem.

Implement and Verify Interim (Containment) Actions:

Define and implement containment actions to isolate the effect of a problem from any internal/external customer until corrective action is implemented. Verify the effectiveness of the containment action.

Find and Verify Root Causes:

Identify all potential causes which would explain why the problem occurred. Isolate and verify the root cause by testing each potential cause against the problem description and test data. Identify alternative corrective actions to eliminate the root cause.

Select Permanent Corrective Actions:

Though test programs quantitatively confirm that the selected corrective actions will resolve the problem for the customer, and will not cause undesirable side effects. Define contingency actions, if necessary, based on risk assessment.

Implement Permanent Corrective Actions:

Define and implement the best permanent corrective actions. Choose on-going controls to ensure that the root cause is eliminated. Once in effect, monitor the long term impact and implement contingency actions, if necessary.

Prevent System Problems: