Root cause analysis (RCA)

Revision as of 16:16, 11 March 2022

Abstract

While managing programs or projects we face many challenges which affect the schedule or quality of the project. For the elimination of such similar future challenges, it is important to identify from where the problem has started (Root Cause). Root cause analysis is a method to identify the source of the problem and to know how it has happened and how to prevent such problems in future. Multiple industries like Construction, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, Information technology uses this method for successful identification of causes for the problem. RCA also gives the scope to identify the gaps in the existing process, reduce the cost of production or increase production. In this article, we will learn about What is root cause analysis and its importance, when and how RCA has to be done and methods of doing root cause analysis.

Introduction

Root cause illustration

Root cause analysis (RCA) is an important aspect of a broad problem-solving process and continuous improvement. A root cause is a part that contributed to a failure and should be removed completely using process improvement.The root cause is the most fundamental problem—the most fundamental reason—that puts in motion the a whole cause-and-effect that leads to the problem. Root cause analysis alone would not give any results, it has to be used as part of a bigger problem-solving effort aimed at improving quality. Organization uses continuous improvement method to remove that problem completely .

Root cause analysis refers to a variety of methodologies, tools, and procedures used to identify the root causes of issues. Some RCA approaches are more focused toward finding actual root causes than others, while others are more broad problem-solving procedures, but others simply provide support for the root cause analysis core activity.[1]

Process of Root cause Analysis