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 Basic Elements of an Effective Implementation of a Root Cause Analysis Program
ThinkReliability specializes in investigating and solving problems. The Cause Mapping method has been implemented in small companies with one site all the way to enterprise wide roll-outs at over 35 sites globally. ThinkReliability works with our clients to provide an implementation that fits their specific needs. Our work processes provide a framework for clients to sustain a long term problem solving discipline that becomes part of daily operations.
These are five basic elements for implementing the Cause Mapping method within an organization: The Cause Mapping Method of Effective Root Cause Analysis
The Cause Mapping method is the cornerstone of the investigation program. It develops a problem solving culture that focuses on capturing fundamental cause-and-effect relationships supported with evidence. The Cause Mapping method is scalable so that it can be used for everything from day-to-day issues to catastrophic incidents. It can be used on operational issues, equipment failures, safety incidents, technical problems, work process deficiencies and customer problems. The communication and alignment of problems between managers, supervisors, different departments and front-line employees improves by using the Cause Mapping method. Measurements
The performance measurements within an organization define both what the problems are and their magnitude. The performance measurements provide direction to people on which problems the Cause Mapping method should be applied. Measurements reflect the deviations from company goals which are what should be investigated. The Investigation Process
Clear roles and responsibilities for the Cause Mapping method will be defined. These will include who owns the problem, who leads the investigations and who will participate. The expectations are also defined for the managers, supervisors and front-line employees so that the focus remains on the organizations daily operations. Facilitation and Documentation
The facilitation and the documentation are listed together because they are closely connected in the Cause Mapping method. There are some specific skills people will learn that make leading the investigation clearer, simpler and quicker. A facilitation may be working one-on-one, in a small group or leading a major investigation. The documentation may start with pencil and paper and then evolve into a much more comprehensive investigation with photos, a timeline, work processes and a detailed Cause Map in a Microsoft Excel workbook. Storage and Sharing
The storage and retrieval of problems may be best accomplished within the companies existing information system. There are several different approaches that are customized to meet the specific client needs. An existing system can be significantly strengthened when coupled with the Cause Mapping method of root cause analysis. For more information on ThinkReliability’s implementation plan for any of these elements contact our office directly either by phone or email.
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