The fishbone method, also known as a fishbone diagram, is a visual way to look at cause and effect, offering a structured approach for brainstorming the potential causes of a specific problem. The problem is displayed at the "head" of the fish.
Understanding the Fishbone Diagram
Here's a breakdown of the fishbone diagram:
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Purpose: To identify the root causes of a specific problem or effect.
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Structure: The diagram resembles a fish skeleton:
- Head: Represents the problem or effect being analyzed.
- Spine: A central line leading to the head.
- Bones: Represent major categories of potential causes.
- Sub-branches: Represent specific causes within each category.
How to Use the Fishbone Diagram
Here's how the fishbone diagram, or the fishbone method, is applied:
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Define the Problem: Clearly state the problem you are trying to solve. This is placed at the "head" of the fish.
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Identify Major Categories: Determine the main categories of potential causes. Common categories include:
- Manpower: People involved, skills, training, etc.
- Methods: Processes, procedures, rules, regulations.
- Machines: Equipment, tools, technology.
- Materials: Raw materials, supplies, components.
- Measurement: Data, metrics, analysis.
- Environment: External factors, conditions.
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Brainstorm Causes: For each category, brainstorm possible causes that could contribute to the problem. These are added as "bones" branching off the main categories.
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Drill Down: For each cause, ask "Why?" to identify sub-causes. Add these as sub-branches to the bones. Continue drilling down until you reach the root causes.
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Analyze and Prioritize: Review the diagram to identify the most likely root causes. Prioritize these for further investigation and action.
Fishbone Diagram vs. Five Whys
While both tools are used to identify causes, the fishbone diagram offers a more structured and comprehensive approach compared to the simpler "Five Whys" technique, according to the reference.
Benefits of Using the Fishbone Method
- Visual Representation: Provides a clear visual representation of the problem and its potential causes.
- Structured Brainstorming: Facilitates structured brainstorming and helps to identify all possible causes.
- Root Cause Analysis: Helps to drill down to the root causes of a problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms.
- Collaboration: Promotes team collaboration and shared understanding of the problem.
