Root Cause Analysis in 6 Steps | OEC Insights
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
By Allan Ung, Operatonal Excellence Consulting
OEC Implementation Insights
Implementation is where success or failure happens. At OEC, we go beyond awareness to provide structured, practical guidance on Lean, TPM, ISO, and quality systems. Each article in this series highlights proven steps, common pitfalls, and practical insights — and connects directly to facilitation‑ready training presentations that help teams move from learning to doing.
Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a structured problem‑solving method used to identify the underlying causes of issues rather than just treating symptoms. By applying RCA Frameworks and Tools, organizations can prevent recurrence, improve reliability, and strengthen continuous improvement. This guide outlines six practical steps to conduct effective RCA — and highlights common pitfalls to avoid.
Step 1: Define the Problem
Clearly describe the issue, scope, and impact. Gather data to understand the current situation.
Why it matters: A precise problem statement ensures focus. Vague definitions lead to chasing symptoms instead of causes.
Step 2: Collect Data
Gather evidence, process information, and document when, where, and how the problem occurs.
Why it matters: Data provides context. Without facts, teams rely on assumptions, which can mislead analysis.
Step 3: Identify Possible Causes
Brainstorm potential contributing factors using tools like cause‑and‑effect (fishbone) diagrams or process mapping.
Why it matters: Exploring multiple possibilities prevents tunnel vision. It ensures teams consider technical, human, and systemic factors.
Step 4: Analyze Root Causes
Apply techniques such as the 5 Whys, Pareto analysis, or fault tree analysis to drill down to the true root cause.
Why it matters: Root cause analysis distinguishes between correlation and causation. Addressing the real driver ensures lasting solutions.
Step 5: Develop and Implement Solutions
Design corrective actions that eliminate or control the root cause. Pilot solutions before full rollout.
Why it matters: Effective solutions target causes, not symptoms. Piloting reduces risk and builds confidence in the fix.
Step 6: Verify and Sustain Results
Measure outcomes, confirm effectiveness, and embed changes into standard processes.
Why it matters: Verification ensures the solution worked. Sustaining results prevents recurrence and builds organizational learning.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Root Cause Analysis
Jumping to solutions too quickly. Skipping analysis leads to temporary fixes.
Relying on opinions instead of data. Evidence is essential for credibility.
Stopping at surface causes. Without drilling deeper, problems reappear.
Failing to sustain improvements. Solutions must be standardized and reinforced.
👉 Want to move beyond awareness and embed Root Cause Analysis into your problem‑solving culture? Download the facilitation‑ready OEC Root Cause Analysis Training Presentation — complete with structured slides, case examples and group activities to guide your team through successful implementation.
About the Author
Article by Allan Ung, Founder & Principal Consultant at Operational Excellence Consulting (Singapore) — a practitioner-led management consultancy specializing in Lean management and Design Thinking. OEC's facilitation‑ready training presentations are built from real practice, designed to help professionals move from awareness to successful implementation. Learn more at www.oeconsulting.com.sg
This article is part of the OEC Implementation Insights series — practical guides linked to facilitation‑ready training presentations.