ishikawa-diagram

name	ishikawa-diagram
description	Use an Ishikawa diagram to identify possible root causes of a problem by organizing contributing factors. Use when diagnosing defects, declining metrics, failures, or complex cause-and-effect issues.
license	MIT
metadata	{"author":"itzcull"}

Ishikawa Diagram

Overview

• Category: Problem Solving Tool
• Purpose: "Identify root causes of problems"
• Created by Japanese professor Kaoru Ishikawa
• Also known as cause-and-effect or fishbone diagram

How to Use

Steps

1. Define the Problem

   • Draw a line to the left or right of the problem statement

2. Identify Contributing Factors

   • List potential categories contributing to the problem
   • Common categories include:
     • People
     • Equipment
     • Methods
     • Measurement
     • Material
     • Environment

3. Find Possible Root Causes

   • Ask "Why is this happening?"
   • Write ideas under each factor
   • Use techniques like "Five whys" and first principles thinking
   • Capture multiple potential root causes

4. Analyze the Diagram

   • Review possible root causes
   • Gather additional data/evidence
   • Identify most likely causes
   • Develop solution strategies

Example Scenario

A product manager investigating declining new sign-ups:

• Factors identified: Landing page, competition, marketing
• Potential root causes explored under each factor
• Analysis leads to investigating conversion rates and sign-up flow

Key Takeaway

The Ishikawa diagram provides a structured approach to problem-solving by:

• Systematically breaking down potential problem sources
• Encouraging comprehensive analysis
• Facilitating deeper understanding of complex issues

Sources

• HarvardX: "How to create cause-and-effect diagrams"
• American Society for Quality: "Fishbone Diagram"

---

Source: https://untools.co/ishikawa-diagram/