E-Training

session
WHAT IS CAUSE & EFFECT DIAGRAM?
When we need to identify and explore and display all the possible causes of a specific problem or
condition, cause & effect diagram (alternatively known as fish bone diagram or Ishikawa diagram) is
very useful. It is developed to represent the relationship between effect and all the possible causes.
This diagram is constructed with effect on right side and all possible causes on left side. All the
causes are categorized grossly under 6 heads, i.e. Man, Machine, Method, Material, Measurement
and Environment. For administrative areas, the causes may be categorized under policies,
procedures, people and plant. These categories are only suggestions. We can use any major
category that emerges or helps people think creatively.
1. All the possible causes are discussed in
brainstorming session, with the team
consensus.
2. For well defined list of causes, most likely
are identified and selected for further
analysis.
3. When we examine every cause, look for
the things that have changed from the
normal pattern.
4. Identify the ways to eliminate the causes
Possible category wise causes Effect and implement them for improvement.
5. Perform follow ups at regular intervals for
the improvement actions.
Some tips for construction of the cause and effect diagram
1. Try not to go beyond the area of control of the group to minimize the frustration.
2. Use as few words as possible.
3. Make sure that everyone agrees completely on the problem statement.
4. Identify the ways to cure the cause and not the symptoms of the cause.