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What is a Fishbone chart and how does it work?
The basic structure of the Fishbone diagram:When to use the Fishbone method?Step-by-step instructions for building a Fishbone diagramExamples of using the Fishbone methodAdvantages and disadvantages of the Fishbone chartTips for using the Fishbone chart effectively
This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
The Fishbone method, or Ishikawa diagram, is a popular tool for analyzing causes and effects, which helps to systematically determine why a certain problem has arisen. This method is especially useful in situations where the problem is complex and requires a multifaceted approach to solve it. In this article, we will consider how the Fishbone chart works, give examples of its use and tips for effective application.
What is a Fishbone chart and how does it work?
The Ishikawa diagram (Fishbone) got its name because of the visual similarity to the fish skeleton, where the main «spine» represents a problem, and the «bones» on either side of it are categories of possible causes. The method was first proposed by the Japanese scientist Kaoru Ishikawa in the 1960s to analyze the quality of products in industrial companies. The idea behind the chart was to structure the analysis of problems, highlighting possible causes and their sub-causes, particularly in the context of quality management.
The basic structure of the Fishbone diagram:
- The problem is located on the "head of the fish" and is the end point of all chains.
- Categories of causes are the main factors that can affect the problem. They are recorded along «bones» or large branches.
- Specific reasons are subcategories and details that emerge from the main categories.
When to use the Fishbone method?
The Fishbone method will be effective in the following cases:
- Analysis of complex problems: When the problem is multicomponent and it is difficult to determine the main cause.
- Process improvements: If workflows need to be streamlined, delays eliminated or product quality improved.
- Risk management: Risk analysis helps to predict possible problems and avoid them.
- Collective discussion: The method is ideal for teamwork when it is important to hear different opinions and ideas.
Step-by-step instructions for building a Fishbone diagram
- Definition of the problem. The first step is to clearly define the problem. It is recorded in the «head of the fish», which is the endpoint of the analysis.
- Definition of categories of causes. The main categories of reasons that can affect the problem are distinguished. The following categories are most often used:
- People (staff): skills, qualifications, motivation.
- Methods (process): order of tasks, work processes, standards.
- Machines (equipment, technologies): state of the art, availability of tools.
- Materials: quality of raw materials, availability of materials.
- Environment (working conditions): physical conditions, location.
- Management: management style, company policy.
- Determination of specific reasons. Within each category, detailed reasons stand out which may be the source of the problem. These reasons may have their sub-reasons, which are also attached to the chart.
- Analysis of causes. Possible causal relationships between the elements are considered, in particular the impact of each factor on the problem is evaluated.
- Development of solutions. The key causes identified are used to develop concrete steps that will help in solving the problem.
Examples of using the Fishbone method
Example 1: Improving product quality in manufacturing
The company faces a high level of defects in products. Using the Fishbone diagram, the following categories are defined:
- People: lack of experience among employees, insufficient training.
- Materials: low quality raw materials, unstable supply.
- Methods: disruption of the technological process, lack of instructions.
- Machines: obsolete equipment, maintenance needs.
- Management: lack of proper quality control.
Based on this analysis, the company can develop solutions, such as training for staff, setting better quality control standards, updating equipment, etc.
Example 2: Addressing low performance in the office
The company's sales department has decreased in productivity. Fishbone chart will help you find out the reasons:
- People: low motivation, high staff turnover.
- Methods: Inefficient order of tasks, a lot of manual work.
- Machines: slow computers, no modern software.
- Environment: insufficient lighting, noisy office.
- Management: ineffective communication with management, excessive control.
After the analysis, the company decides to improve working conditions, automate part of the processes, and also offer incentives to increase employee motivation.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Fishbone chart
Advantages
- Understandability: Ease of construction and clear visualization of the problem.
- Flexibility: Can be applied to any kind of problem.
- Team Analysis: The chart promotes discussion within the team by involving participants in the analysis.
Disadvantages
- Difficulty for big problems: For very big and multifaceted problems, the diagram can become overloaded.
- Does not show priority: It is difficult to determine which causes have the greatest impact.
- Does not always find the main reason: The method focuses more on depth than accuracy, so additional analysis may be needed.
Tips for using the Fishbone chart effectively
- Be specific: Clearly define the problem and avoid general wording.
- Work in a team: Invite everyone related to the — problem to discuss, this will help reveal more details.
- Don't dwell on superficial causes: Use the five-why method to find the real causes of the problem.
- Prioritize: After drawing up the chart, evaluate the factors that may have the greatest impact.
- Use other tools with Fishbone: The method is effective in combination with other tools, such as SWOT analysis or risk matrix.
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