Preparation
01 · Define the purpose
- Establish the objective: Identify the causes of an existing problem? Prevent potential risks in a project?
02 · Prepare materials
- Physical format: Large paper or whiteboards to draw the fishbone diagram. Colored markers to differentiate categories. Sticky notes for recording ideas.
- Large paper or whiteboards to draw the fishbone diagram.
- Colored markers to differentiate categories.
- Sticky notes for recording ideas.
- Digital format: Tools to design collaborative online diagrams.
- Tools to design collaborative online diagrams.
03 · Define key categories
- Select relevant categories for the problem. Examples: People Processes Materials Equipment Environment
- People
- Processes
- Materials
- Equipment
- Environment
04 · Organize the space
- In-person: Arrange workstations or a shared space where everyone can contribute to the diagram.
- Virtual: Set up a shared digital board for collaboration.
Step-by-step instructions
1
Introduce the purpose
- Explain that the goal is to identify the primary causes of a problem or risk using a collaborative fishbone diagram.
- Present the central problem or risk and ensure everyone understands it.
2
Draw the base diagram
- Draw a horizontal line to represent the main problem or risk.
- Add diagonal lines extending from the main line for the predefined categories.
3
Brainstorm within categories
- Divide participants into small groups and assign each group a category.
- Ask them to generate possible causes within their category and record them on sticky notes or a digital board.
4
Build the diagram
- Each group presents their ideas and places them on the fishbone diagram under the relevant category.
- Facilitate a discussion to adjust or reorganize ideas if needed.
5
Analyze key causes
- Evaluate the identified causes to determine which are the most relevant or impactful.
- Use techniques like voting, consensus, or impact assessment to prioritize.
6
Define solutions or preventive actions
- For the priority causes, work with participants to propose solutions or mitigation strategies.
7
Closing and reflection
- Summarize the key causes and proposed actions.
- Reflect on how this analysis will help prevent or solve the problem.
Materials
Large paper or whiteboards to draw the diagram.
Sticky notes or index cards to record ideas.
Markers or pens for writing.
Digital tools
Practical recommendations
Clearly define the problem
Ensure all participants fully understand the central problem or risk.
Encourage collaboration
Foster dialogue and active participation during the brainstorming session.
Document the results
Take photos or save the digital diagram for use in solution implementation.
Prioritize causes
Focus on the most relevant or high-impact causes for further analysis.
Inspiration
Examples:
- Root Cause Analysis: The Five Whys, Miro template, Miroverse
- Root Cause Evaluation Template, Miro template
