Root-cause Analysis

Root-cause analysis (RCA) uses a number of techniques to explore the cause-effect relationship to help identify, contain, correct and prevent defects within a process or product.

RCA uses analytical thinking tools such Ishikawa Diagrams, Kepner-Tregoe Techniques and 5 Why Questioning to determine the root cause of a defect or problem and find possible solutions. The concept is widely used in the automotive industry and constitutes a qualifying criterion for achieving ISO 9001 accreditation. Mark Terblanche of Prime has utilized these techniques extensively and has formulated his own system where all these cause-effect methods, and the links between them, are displayed on a single form layout for ease-of-use and understanding by his clients.