Scenario #1, Good Example

Finding (Problem): My glasses have broken several times within the last few weeks, which is slowing my productivity.

Short-Term Containment: Use clear adhesive tape to secure the lens in the frame.

Root Cause Analysis: Methodology: 5-Why

Restate the finding: The lens keeps falling out of my eyeglasses.

1st Why: Why does the lens keep falling out of your glasses?
I store them in my desk drawer without a case and they sometimes get tossed around in the drawer amidst the other items that are strewn about.

2nd Why: Why are you not storing them in the case? I am not storing them in the case because I lost the case.

3rd Why: Why did you lose the case?
My desk is extremely disorganized.

Corrective Action: I will buy a new case and use it!
I will organize my desk so that the glasses will no longer be smashed under the pressure of the other items in my desk. Since my desk will be organized, I will be able to store the glasses in their case in a clear area of your desk drawer when I don't need to wear them.

REFLECTION: Why is this a good example of root cause analysis?
The example illustrates good root cause analysis that will allow clients to identify the true root cause and determine the proper systemic corrective action. The root cause listed above addresses the true problem in the system. Also, the corrective action provided is not simply an act of containment; instead it provides irreversible systemic corrective action. In this example, the client used the "5 Why Methodology" which is a helpful tool when analyzing your root cause.