RCA Problem Definition Flashcards

What is the purpose of 'scoping' an RCA investigation?

Answer: To set boundaries on what will and will not be investigated

Scoping defines the boundaries of an RCA investigation so that resources are focused on the relevant problem area rather than spreading too broadly.

In RCA, what distinguishes a 'symptom' from a 'root cause'?

Answer: A symptom is a visible effect of the problem; a root cause is the fundamental reason it occurred

Symptoms are observable signs that something is wrong, while root causes are the underlying fundamental reasons that, if eliminated, would prevent recurrence.

Which question format best helps teams avoid treating symptoms as root causes during problem definition?

Answer: What would have to be true for this problem NOT to occur?

Asking what conditions would prevent the problem prompts teams to think about underlying causes rather than surface-level symptoms.

What is the role of 'baseline data' when defining an RCA problem?

Answer: To establish what normal performance looks like so deviations can be measured

Baseline data defines normal or expected performance, enabling investigators to quantify the gap between expected and actual performance.

In RCA, why should a problem statement avoid words like 'probably' or 'apparently'?

Answer: They introduce assumptions and bias before evidence is gathered

Words like 'probably' pre-assume a cause before investigation begins, which can bias the team and cause them to overlook alternative causes.

What does the 'Is Not' column in an Is/Is Not problem definition help investigators understand?

Answer: What conditions, locations, or timeframes were NOT affected, to narrow the cause

The 'Is Not' column highlights contrasts to help investigators identify what unique factor or change is present in the 'Is' scenario but absent in the 'Is Not' scenario.