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Root Cause Analysis Program Development
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A work process for your overall investigation program is essential if you want to improve it
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Just as any task within a company can be captured in a process flow, so can the overall investigation or prevention program. Managing by process applies to the reliability effort as well.

The sustainability of your RCA program is dictated by a clearly defined RCA process and the commitment to executing the process by senior leadership.

ThinkReliability will work closely with key stakeholders to evaluate and develop a customized root cause analysis program that will drive results and integrate within the current processes at the client’s site. Our evaluation and recommendations are based on five key elements of an effective and sustainable RCA program.

Evaluate your RCA Program

We can map out your RCA process and help you build an effective and sustainable program. 

Request a quote

Form follows function
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The nature of the client’s business, their current work processes, and the current utilization of different information tools will be a guide to get started, but those items won’t necessarily limit the options that will be considered. Decisions will be made by the client as to what the ideal system looks like. Some clients are extremely sophisticated, with mature processes already, and some simple refining is done. Other clients are starting from scratch to develop their first comprehensive investigation program.

Our approach
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A root cause analysis program review and development consists of three phases designed to leverage the strengths of the current program, identify gaps and opportunities, and propose recommendations that can be immediately implemented. The objective of this exercise is to develop a comprehensive program that provides effective and sustainable results. All phases are captured remotely via a desktop-sharing application, which minimizes the need for travel to each site. The client will provide a subject matter expert to provide upfront information on the current process.

Phase 1
Phase 2
Phase 3

Phase 1: Capture current RCA process

A ThinkReliability lead consultant will begin capturing the current-state process map of your root cause analysis program. This process capture will provide valuable insight into the strengths and weaknesses of your current RCA process. Strengths of the program will be built upon with the future RCA program, and solutions will be incorporated to mitigate any weaknesses. Any current investigation policy or program with the company would be the starting point to identify what’s working well and what needs to be improved.

Phase 2: Develop proposed (future state) root cause analysis program

Using the current state process map, we will draft a proposed process map that will build on the strengths of the current program and address existing gaps. ThinkReliability will make proposed changes based on best practices and our expertise working with and building programs with other organizations. Throughout this process, ThinkReliability will work to identify customized recommendations that are practical without sacrificing elements critical to the success of the program. Elements that you can expect to find within your customized process include:

  • Linkage to key performance indicators for the company
  • Data-developed trigger points for conducting an investigation
  • Guidelines on the appropriate level of detail (based on severity)
  • Documentation and database requirements for incidents and action plans
  • Steps for implementation and follow-up on action items
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Defined stakeholders and RCA champions
  • Reporting requirements
  • Protocol for sharing lessons learned across the organization (Cumulative Cause Maps)
  • Training requirements
  • Certification requirements
  • ThinkReliability support options

Phase 3: Evaluate effectiveness

Following implementation, it is important to revisit and refine the process to address unanticipated challenges and make necessary updates or revisions. This evaluation is typically performed 6-12 months after implementation.

Evaluate your RCA Program

We can map out your RCA process and help you build an effective and sustainable program. Click below to request a quote or call our office at 281-412-7766.

Request a quote

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