Root analysis: Solutions to improve efficiency for businesses (Part 1)

When things are not going on common sense, it is essential to find the root cause of the problem. However, in order to identify the root cause, managers need to carry out a variety of testing methods as well as gradually eliminate possibilities. This is a job that will consume a lot of time as well as other resources in your organization.

In many cases, 6 sigma gives you easier access to the easy root cause of the problem. Based on the principle of statistics, 6 Sigma gives managers an objective view of the production status of the entire organization. With this idea, all the favorable or difficult conditions are explored deeply to find the root cause. Because the number of beneficial conditions is increasing, this method is formed right from the existing 6 Sigma strategy.

What is the 6 Sigma Root Cause Analysis Strategy?

The Sigma 6 Root Cause Analysis Strategy can be understood simply by answering 5 “Why?” Questions, which encourages employees who are struggling to ask them themselves until they identify the root cause of the problem.

In fact, you’ll have to ask yourself (or your team) the question “why?” at least 1, 2 times or even more than 5 times. It is important to make sure you are asking the correct question and will not stop until you find the answer.

The question “why?” This can be applied in all cases, but you also need to be clear about which issues are most important. The criteria of 6 Sigma give you specific reasons to help the group focus on the right direction to solve the problem, it is difficult to be distracted when performing root cause analysis.

For an example in a normal everyday situation, follow this simple example: If you are driving home and suddenly the alarm light comes on, try this method to find the cause. First, you identify the problem: “the car is working properly but the alarm light is still on”. Then you will start asking why? Specifically:

– Why is the alarm light on?

Because the cord that is attached to the parts is connected is broken. (Confirm this by looking under the hood or observing the systems attached to the rope for a crash)

If you determine that this is not the real problem, you will move on to the next steam sentence.

– What other reasons do the alarm lights turn on?

Because I haven’t changed oil for 8 months. (Check the oil level or ask a mechanic).

If you find that this is the cause, you will still need to keep asking why, because oil is not the root cause of the problem.

– Why is oil not replaced on time?

Because I forgot to schedule the oil change.

– Why did I forget to schedule the oil change?

Because I stopped using the “my calendar” app on the phone.

Once you know the root cause of the alarm light being turned on is actually poor organizational skill, you can refine management and completely prevent the same mistakes.

Source: Kaizen News