Route Cause Analysis
Structured problem solving
What is Route Cause Analysis?
Root cause analysis (RCA) is a problem-solving technique that involves identifying the real cause of a problem rather than just solving its symptoms.
The primary goal of RCA is to determine the factors that resulted in the nature, the magnitude, the location, and the timing of the undesired outcomes of one or more previous incidents. This is to determine which behaviours, processes or conditions must be changed to eliminate reoccurrence.
Purpose of Root Cause Analysis
The purpose of considering all possible solutions to a problem is to eliminate or reduce recurrence at the lowest cost and in the simplest way. Concentrating on performance improvement evaluations at root causes is more effective than only removing the symptoms of a problem.
A successful RCA is performed systematically, with conclusions and causes supported by real evidence. Usually, there is more than one root cause for any problem.
All known factors between the root cause and the problem must be explored and defined.
What it can Achieve
To be efficient, the analysis should set a chain of events or timeline to comprehend the relationships between contributory factors, root cause and the defined problem or event to prevent in the future.
Root cause analysis can transform a reactive culture into a proactive culture that solves problems before they occur or escalate.
