RCA Data Collection and Analysis Flashcards

What is 'confirmation bias' and why is it a risk during RCA data analysis?

Answer: The tendency to seek and interpret evidence that confirms a pre-existing belief about the cause

Confirmation bias causes investigators to favor data that supports their initial hypothesis while discounting evidence that points to different causes, leading to incorrect root causes.

In RCA, what is the purpose of a 'data verification' step?

Answer: To confirm that collected data is accurate, complete, and reliable before analysis begins

Data verification ensures that the information used for analysis is accurate and trustworthy, preventing false conclusions based on flawed data.

Which statistical concept helps RCA analysts determine if a data trend is real or due to random variation?

Answer: Statistical significance testing

Statistical significance testing helps analysts determine whether an observed pattern in data is likely due to a real cause or simply the result of random chance.

What does 'common cause variation' mean in the context of RCA?

Answer: Natural, inherent variation built into a process that occurs routinely

Common cause variation is the natural, expected fluctuation inherent in any process; it does not indicate a specific problem requiring RCA.

In RCA, what is the value of comparing 'before and after' data when analyzing a process change?

Answer: It helps determine whether the change is associated with the onset of the problem

Comparing data from before and after a change helps investigators identify whether that change is correlated with the problem's appearance.

What is the purpose of a 'run chart' in RCA data analysis?

Answer: To display data over time to reveal trends, shifts, or cycles in a process

A run chart plots data points over time to make trends, shifts, or cyclical patterns visible, helping analysts identify when changes in a process occurred.