Process and Tools Training Toolbook
PQ Systems
http://www.pqsystems.com/
-Information in this presentation is derived from PQ Systems

AKA- The Fishbone

Cause & Effect Diagram
Quality Tool Book; Page 49
What is it?
•
A picture of various system elements that may contribute to the problem.
•
Helps to identify possible causes of a specified problem (or effect).
•
Used to root causes so that an improvement theory can be tried to fix the problem
• Solutions should be based on root cause!

Cause & Effect Diagram
When is it used?
Answer “yes to one or both of these questions:
1. Do root causes of a problem need to be identified?
2. Are there ideas and/or opinions about the causes of a problem?

Cause & Effect Diagram
How is it made?
1. Identify the problem.
2. Record the problem statement.
3. Draw and label the main bones.
4. Brainstorm for problem causes.
5. Identify the most likely cause candidates.

Cause & Effect Diagram
Remember
•
A graphic way to display a lot of cause information in a compact space
•
Helps move from opinions to theories that can be tested (based on root cause)
–
Is critical to understanding how to make effective improvements
•
View Cause & Effect Sample (Toolbook p. 51)

People
Cause
Instructional
Materials
Internal resistance to change
Worksheets
& games isolate skills
State tests divided by content area
Sub
Cause
Backbone
Time
Teachers have no knowledge on how to integrate
State/National
Requirements
Methodology
Low
Integration of State
Test
Objectives
Across
Curriculum
Areas
Identified
Problem
(effect)

 Categorize many potential causes of a problem or issue in an orderly way.
 It helps to analyze what is really happening in a process.
 It can help students learn about new processes and procedures in the classroom or school setting.

Legislative
Branch
Executive
Branch
Washington
D.C.
Checks and
Balances
Judicial
Branch

 Why are students:
 not paying attention in class?
 forgetting their homework?
 doing the wrong assignment?
 being late to school?
 doing poorly on tests?
 missing school?
 taking too long to do an assignment?
losing papers?

 No judgments made about ideas
 Everyone will have an opinion/voice about what causes a problem
 Organizing these ideas improves the chance that good ideas can be tested.

Label the “main bones” of the diagram in ways that are best for your problem or event.
 Customizing is encouraged!

 Work with a partner or your table
 Brainstorm areas in a classroom that could be improved
 Select one area for improvement
 Use the Cause and Effect diagram to figure out possible root causes of the identified problem.
 Use your tool book p. 49- follow the steps