How the Ishikawa diagram helps in problem solving

The main objective of the Ishikawa diagram is to help work teams identify the causes of a given problem.

Therefore, it is composed of a main axis that represents a problem in question, and several branches that symbolize the possible causes of the problem.

But once we understand the main objective, let's explain what an Ishikawa diagram is and how the tool can help solve a company's problems.

What is an Ishikawa diagram?

The Ishikawa diagram, also known as a fishbone diagram or cause and effect diagram, is nothing more than a graphical tool that helps identify the causes of a given problem.

Developed by Japanese engineer Kaoru Ishikawa in the 1960s, the diagram emerged as a way to help companies improve the quality of their products and services.

The Ishikawa diagram is shaped like a fishbone, which represents the categories of causes that can contribute to a given problem.

Therefore, these categories can vary depending on the problem at hand, but typically include people, processes, equipment, materials, environment, and policies.

And the possible causes are listed along the respective categories, thus forming the “meat” of the fish.

By visualizing the possible causes of a problem in an Ishikawa diagram, it is possible to identify the relationships between them and get to the root of the problem.

This way, teams can develop effective solutions and create prevention methods for similar problems that may occur.

The Ishikawa diagram is a collaborative tool that can be used in your team, encouraging group participation in identifying the causes of the problem and finding solutions.

Therefore, the method is used by several companies and in various sectors, such as industry, health, education, and in business management.

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What are the categories?

The main categories that can be used in an Ishikawa diagram are known as the 6 Ms.

• Machines: Regardless of the type of work performed, lack of equipment maintenance can be the reason for many problems.

Therefore, it is very important to supervise all equipment so that its operation is in compliance.

• Materials: This problem is related to physical and chemical components during the process.

Therefore, keeping track of material usage is extremely important.

• Labor: This M is related to the attitudes of the collaborators in question, since humans are susceptible to errors.

Some employee attitudes can be the cause of problems, such as a task carried out in a hurry, imprudently, or even due to a lack of qualifications.

• Environment: In this case, the problem may be related to the internal or external environment.

External factors are considered, such as pollution or climate variation.

Internal environmental problems can include poorly used space, excessive noise, among others.

Therefore, the ideal is for the work environment to be favorable to the entire team, consequently the result will be better performance.

• Measurements: This category can be seen as the most challenging, as it deals with measuring, controlling and monitoring processes.

Therefore, when used incorrectly, it can generate overload and hinder the progress of certain functions.

• Methods: This M is nothing more than procedures and methods used during activities.

It represents the way you plan the development of your activities and control everything that is happening.

These categories are flexible and can be adapted according to each type of problem addressed.

How to use the Ishikawa diagram?

As you can see, the composition of the diagram is simple and easy to create.

So follow the step by step and discover how to apply the Ishikawa diagram.

1- Define the problem

At this point we will think about the shape of a fish, starting with the head as it will represent the problem that will be analyzed.

Create a precise and objective definition, gather as much information as possible about the problem, such as who was involved, how and when it happened.

And then, give your problem a name.

2- Identify the categories that may be involved

So now you will draw a horizontal line that will start from the fish's head, and then make transversal lines that will represent the categories where the causes fit.

At this stage, depending on the situation at hand, you may want to rely on the 6 Ms, or some of them, to help define the categories.

3- Discuss with the team  

Gather your team to help you prepare the Ishikawa diagram, as after completion there will be a need to discuss the problem and possible solutions that can be taken.

4- Diagram analysis

This is the last stage and your diagram is now ready, it contains all possible causes for the generation of a root problem.

Now you and your team will be able to focus on actions to correct the main causes that led to this problem, have a good organizational culture helps a lot at this time.

Depending on the complexity of the problem, using the Ishikawa diagram you will be able to investigate the most likely causes in more detail.

Why use the Ishikawa diagram?

A great answer to this question is that you should use this tool because of its ease.

Since the Ishikawa diagram makes it easier for the team to organize themselves when discussing the root problem, its visualization is simple and makes finding the main point easier.

Therefore, once all possible causes have been identified, the team can then organize them and analyze the problem, seeking specific solutions for each of the causes.

It is important to remember that the main focus is on developing an effective solution to the root of the problem, and not just creating a “palliative”.

Furthermore, the Ishikawa diagram can be used in conjunction with other tools, such as the PDCA cycle, for example, which aims to plan, execute, verify and act with the proposed solutions to solve a problem.

Conclusion:

The Ishikawa diagram is a powerful tool that aids in problem-solving, as it helps to visualize all the possible causes of a problem and organize them into categories.

Therefore, it helps in the development of effective and lasting solutions.

However, it is important to remember that success in problem-solving will depend on correctly identifying the root problem, so evaluate all possibilities to achieve a good result!

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Given that May 4, 2023