Name a root cause analysis technique used in problem management.

Name a root cause analysis technique used in problem management.

• A. SWOT analysis
• B. Gantt chart
• C. 5 Whys or Ishikawa (fishbone) diagram
• D. Pareto principle

Answer: (C)

Finding the underlying cause of a problem is crucial in problem management. A straightforward and effective way to drill down to root causes is to use structured techniques like the 5 Whys, or to map potential causes with an Ishikawa (fishbone) diagram. The 5 Whys approach asks “why” repeatedly, often about five times, to peel back layers of symptoms and reach the fundamental issue that, if fixed, will prevent recurrence. The Ishikawa diagram organizes possible contributing factors into categories such as methods, people, materials, equipment, environment, and management, and then shows how these factors combine to lead to the problem. These methods concentrate on root causes rather than stopping at symptoms, which is essential for permanent resolution. Other options fit different purposes: SWOT is for evaluating strategic position, a Gantt chart is for scheduling and project timelines, and the Pareto principle helps prioritize efforts but isn’t a specific root-cause analysis technique.

Finding the underlying cause of a problem is crucial in problem management. A straightforward and effective way to drill down to root causes is to use structured techniques like the 5 Whys, or to map potential causes with an Ishikawa (fishbone) diagram. The 5 Whys approach asks “why” repeatedly, often about five times, to peel back layers of symptoms and reach the fundamental issue that, if fixed, will prevent recurrence. The Ishikawa diagram organizes possible contributing factors into categories such as methods, people, materials, equipment, environment, and management, and then shows how these factors combine to lead to the problem. These methods concentrate on root causes rather than stopping at symptoms, which is essential for permanent resolution. Other options fit different purposes: SWOT is for evaluating strategic position, a Gantt chart is for scheduling and project timelines, and the Pareto principle helps prioritize efforts but isn’t a specific root-cause analysis technique.