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What Is a Fishbone Diagram? | Templates & Examples

Published on January 2, 2023 by Tegan George . Revised on January 29, 2024.

A fishbone diagram is a problem-solving approach that uses a fish-shaped diagram to model possible root causes of problems and troubleshoot possible solutions. It is also called an Ishikawa diagram, after its creator, Kaoru Ishikawa, as well as a herringbone diagram or cause-and-effect diagram.

Fishbone diagrams are often used in root cause analysis , to troubleshoot issues in quality management or product development. They are also used in the fields of nursing and healthcare, or as a brainstorming and mind-mapping technique many students find helpful.

Table of contents

How to make a fishbone diagram, fishbone diagram templates, fishbone diagram examples, advantages and disadvantages of fishbone diagrams, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about fishbone diagrams.

A fishbone diagram is easy to draw, or you can use a template for an online version.

• Your fishbone diagram starts out with an issue or problem. This is the “head” of the fish, summarized in a few words or a small phrase.
• Next, draw a long arrow, which serves as the fish’s backbone.
• From here, you’ll draw the first “bones” directly from the backbone, in the shape of small diagonal lines going right-to-left. These represent the most likely or overarching causes of your problem.
• Branching off from each of these first bones, create smaller bones containing contributing information and necessary detail.
• When finished, your fishbone diagram should give you a wide-view idea of what the root causes of the issue you’re facing could be, allowing you to rank them or choose which could be most plausible.

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There are no built-in fishbone diagram templates in Microsoft programs, but we’ve made a few free ones for you to use that you can download below. Alternatively, you can make one yourself using the following steps:

• In a fresh document, go to Insert > Shapes
• Draw a long arrow from left to right, and add a text box on the right-hand side. These serve as the backbone and the head of the fish.
• Next, add lines jutting diagonally from the backbone. These serve as the ribs, or the contributing factors to the main problem.
• Next, add horizontal lines jutting from each central line. These serve as the potential causes of the problem.

Lastly, add text boxes to label each function.

You can try your hand at filling one in yourself using the various blank fishbone diagram templates below, in the following formats:

Fishbone diagram template Excel

Download our free Excel template below!

Fishbone diagram template Word

Download our free Word template below!

Fishbone diagram template PowerPoint

Download our free PowerPoint template below!

Fishbone diagrams are used in a variety of settings, both academic and professional. They are particularly popular in healthcare settings, particularly nursing, or in group brainstorm study sessions. In the business world, they are an often-used tool for quality assurance or human resources professionals.

Fishbone diagram example #1: Climate change

Let’s start with an everyday example: what are the main causes of climate change?

Fishbone diagram example #2: Healthcare and nursing

Fishbone diagrams are often used in nursing and healthcare to diagnose patients with unclear symptoms, or to streamline processes or fix ongoing problems. For example: why have surveys shown a decrease in patient satisfaction?

Fishbone diagram example #3: Quality assurance

QA professionals also use fishbone diagrams to troubleshoot usability issues, such as: why is the website down?

Fishbone diagram example #4: HR

Lastly, an HR example: why are employees leaving the company?

Fishbone diagrams come with advantages and disadvantages.

• Great tool for brainstorming and mind-mapping, either individually or in a group project.
• Can help identify causal relationships and clarify relationships between variables .
• Constant iteration of “why” questions really drills down to root problems and elegantly simplifies even complex issues.

Disadvantages

• Can lead to incorrect or inconsistent conclusions if the wrong assumptions are made about root causes or the wrong variables are prioritized.
• Fishbone diagrams are best suited to short phrases or simple ideas—they can get cluttered and confusing easily.
• Best used in the exploratory research phase, since they cannot provide true answers, only suggestions.

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If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

Fishbone diagrams have a few different names that are used interchangeably, including herringbone diagram, cause-and-effect diagram, and Ishikawa diagram.

These are all ways to refer to the same thing– a problem-solving approach that uses a fish-shaped diagram to model possible root causes of problems and troubleshoot solutions.

Fishbone diagrams (also called herringbone diagrams, cause-and-effect diagrams, and Ishikawa diagrams) are most popular in fields of quality management. They are also commonly used in nursing and healthcare, or as a brainstorming technique for students.

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Guide: Fishbone Diagram

Author: Daniel Croft

Daniel Croft is an experienced continuous improvement manager with a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a Bachelor's degree in Business Management. With more than ten years of experience applying his skills across various industries, Daniel specializes in optimizing processes and improving efficiency. His approach combines practical experience with a deep understanding of business fundamentals to drive meaningful change.

The Fishbone Diagram, also known by various other names such as Ishikawa Diagram, Cause and Effect Diagram or 6Ms, is a visual tool used in problem-solving and root cause analysis . Originating from the quality management sector, it is used as a systematic approach to identify, explore, and display possible causes of a specific problem.

What is a Fishbone Diagram?

The Fishbone Diagram is a graphical tool used for identifying and organizing possible causes of a specific problem or outcome. The diagram resembles the skeletal structure of a fish, hence its name. At the “head” of the fish is the problem you’re trying to solve, and the “bones” branching off the spine are the multiple potential causes contributing to that problem.

The benefit of a Fishbone Diagram lies in its simplicity. It gives you a structured way to brainstorm and categorize the various factors affecting a specific issue. The diagram can get as detailed as you need it to be, allowing for sub-causes to branch off the main causes, offering even deeper insights.

The Components of a Fishbone Diagram

Head : The fish’s head represents the problem or effect you’re analyzing.

Spine : The long, horizontal line connecting to the head serves as the timeline or sequence of the problem.

Bones : These are the categories of potential causes. They branch off the spine, leading towards the head.

Sub-Bones : These are the more specific factors or sub-causes that stem from the main categories.

Why Use a Fishbone Diagram?

The Fishbone Diagram is a flexible tool that can be used for a range of applications. Here’s why it’s so useful:

1. Easy Visualization:

One of the primary advantages of using a Fishbone Diagram is its ability to simplify complex problems. With all potential causes visually represented in one place, it becomes easier to analyze and discuss the issues.

2. Team Collaboration:

The Fishbone Diagram is excellent for brainstorming sessions. It encourages team members to think critically and contributes to a shared understanding of the problem. It’s collaborative by design, allowing for the collective intelligence of the group to shine.

3. Root Cause Analysis:

Identifying symptoms of a problem is one thing; uncovering the root cause is another. The Fishbone Diagram excels at this by forcing you to dig deep into various contributing factors. By isolating these causes, you’re better positioned to find a lasting solution.

By using a Fishbone Diagram, you’re not just addressing a problem with a short-term fix; you’re conducting a thorough investigation to eliminate issues from the root up.

How to Create a Fishbone Diagram: A Detailed Guide

Creating a Fishbone Diagram might seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually a straightforward process. Here, we’ll break down each step in detail to ensure you can construct a Fishbone Diagram that serves its purpose effectively.

Materials You’ll Need:

• A whiteboard or large sheet of paper
• Markers or pens
• Sticky notes (optional)
• A team of people for brainstorming

Step 1: Identify the Problem

The first and most crucial step is to clearly identify the problem you’re trying to solve. This statement should be specific and concise. Write this problem statement at the far right side of your whiteboard or paper, as it will serve as the “head” of your fishbone diagram.

• Use data to define the problem whenever possible.
• Make sure the problem is mutually understood and agreed upon by all team members.

Step 2: Determine the Main Categories

Now, draw a horizontal line from the problem statement towards the left side of the board. This is the “spine” of your fish. Next, you’ll identify the major categories of causes that could be contributing to the problem. These categories will serve as the main “bones” branching off from the spine.

Common categories often include:

• Measurement
• Environment
• The categories can be industry-specific or general, depending on the problem you’re analyzing.
• Aim for 4-6 main categories for better manageability.

Step 3: Brainstorm Causes

Once you’ve determined the main categories, it’s time to brainstorm potential causes for each category. These causes will be the smaller “bones” that branch off from the main bones. If you’re working with a team, this is an excellent time for a brainstorming session.

• Use sticky notes to write down ideas so you can easily move them around.
• Encourage every team member to contribute; sometimes the most unexpected insights come from diverse perspectives.

The output of the root cause analysis at this point may look something like the below example. With the lack of preventative maintenance being explored with the 5Whys analysis.

Step 4: Dig Deeper with Sub-Causes

Sometimes, the primary causes can be broken down into smaller, more specific sub-causes. This is where the “ 5 Whys ” technique can be beneficial. For each primary cause, ask “Why?” up to five times to dig deeper into the root of the issue.

• Not all primary causes will need sub-causes; use your discretion.
• Keep the diagram organized to ensure readability.

Step 5: Analyze and Take Action

After all the causes and sub-causes have been identified, it’s time to analyze the Fishbone Diagram as a team. Highlight or circle the causes that seem most likely to be contributing to the problem. These are the areas that will need immediate attention and action.

• Use data or evidence to support your conclusions.
• Create an action plan assigning responsibility for each highlighted cause.

And there you have it! You’ve successfully created a Fishbone Diagram that will help you get to the root of your problem.

Examples and Case Studies: Understanding Fishbone Diagrams in Action

Case study: manufacturing unit with quality issues.

Imagine you run a manufacturing unit, and you’ve been receiving complaints about the quality of your products. You decide to use a Fishbone Diagram to get to the root of the issue.

Step 1: Identify the Problem Problem Statement: “High number of defective products in the last quarter.”

Step 2: main categories.

• People : Untrained staff, high employee turnover
• Process : Inconsistent quality checks, outdated SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)
• Equipment : Aged machinery, lack of maintenance
• Environment : Poor lighting, extreme temperature fluctuations

Step 4: Dig Deeper (5 Whys)

• Untrained Staff : Why? No formal training program.
• Aged Machinery : Why? No budget allocated for equipment upgrades.

After analyzing the Fishbone Diagram, you realize that untrained staff and aged machinery are your primary culprits. Your next steps could involve investing in staff training programs and allocating budget for machinery upgrades.

By following these steps, you can develop targeted strategies to improve product quality significantly.

Common Mistakes and Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Fishbone Diagram

1. overlooking minor causes.

While it’s easy to focus on the most glaring issues, minor causes can accumulate and have a significant impact.

Tip : Don’t disregard a cause just because it seems minor. Sometimes, fixing smaller issues can lead to big improvements.

2. Ignoring Data

It’s tempting to rely solely on brainstorming and intuition, but data should be your guiding star.

Tip : Use metrics and KPIs to support or refute the causes you’ve identified. This adds credibility to your findings and helps you prioritize effectively.

3. Stopping at Symptoms

Identifying symptoms is just the first step; your ultimate goal should be to uncover the root causes.

Tip : Use techniques like the “5 Whys” to dig deeper into each cause and ensure you’re addressing the root of the issue, not just its manifestations.

Fishbone Diagrams are a fantastic asset in the toolbox of anyone interested in continuous improvement. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just getting started, this simple yet powerful tool can help you dissect complex problems and develop targeted solutions.

They encourage you to look beyond the obvious and delve into the intricacies that contribute to each problem. So go ahead, grab that pen and paper (or a whiteboard, if you’re feeling fancy), and start your journey towards effective problem-solving.

• Ilie, G. and Ciocoiu, C.N., 2010. Application of fishbone diagram to determine the risk of an event with multiple causes.   Management research and practice ,  2 (1), pp.1-20.
• Coccia, M., 2018. The Fishbone diagram to identify, systematize and analyze the sources of general purpose Technologies.   Journal of Social and Administrative Sciences ,  4 (4), pp.291-303.

Q: What is the origin of the Fishbone Diagram?

A: The Fishbone Diagram was originally developed by Dr. Kaoru Ishikawa, a Japanese quality control statistician, in the 1960s. It’s also sometimes referred to as the Ishikawa Diagram in his honor.

Q: Can Fishbone Diagrams be used for non-manufacturing problems?

A: Absolutely! While Fishbone Diagrams are popular in manufacturing and quality management, their application is not limited to these areas. They can be used in healthcare, software development, event planning, and even for personal problem-solving.

Q: How many main categories should my Fishbone Diagram have?

A: The number of main categories can vary depending on the complexity of the problem. However, it’s generally advisable to have between 4-6 main categories for easier analysis and readability.

Q: Can I use software to create a Fishbone Diagram?

A: Yes, there are several software tools available for creating Fishbone Diagrams, such as Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart, and various other project management software options. However, a simple pen and paper or a whiteboard can be just as effective for smaller teams or simpler problems.

Q: How do I know which causes to prioritize after creating a Fishbone Diagram?

A: After creating your Fishbone Diagram, you should analyze it with your team to identify the most likely root causes of the problem. Using data to support your conclusions can be very helpful. You may also employ techniques like the Pareto Analysis to prioritize causes based on their impact.

Daniel Croft

Hi im Daniel continuous improvement manager with a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma and over 10 years of real-world experience across a range sectors, I have a passion for optimizing processes and creating a culture of efficiency. I wanted to create Learn Lean Siigma to be a platform dedicated to Lean Six Sigma and process improvement insights and provide all the guides, tools, techniques and templates I looked for in one place as someone new to the world of Lean Six Sigma and Continuous improvement.

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What is a Fishbone Diagram? Definition, Categories, Types, Examples and Best Practices

By Paul VanZandt

Published on: July 24, 2023

Table of Contents

What is a Fishbone Diagram?

Importance and purpose of fishbone diagrams, fishbone diagrams categories, types of fishbone diagrams, how fishbone diagrams examples to drive solutions, how to create a fishbone diagram: 4 key steps, top 5 best practices for a fishbone diagram in 2023.

A Fishbone diagram, also known as an Ishikawa diagram, is defined as a powerful causal analysis tool designed to uncover the root causes of complex problems. Widely utilized in manufacturing, industrial services, product development, and general troubleshooting, this visual methodology provides a structured approach to identify and address issues with clarity. By visually mapping potential causes, teams can efficiently pinpoint the underlying factors affecting processes and systems. Explore how integrating Fishbone diagrams into your problem-solving toolkit can lead to precise and effective solutions in various industries.

Any fishbone diagram has 3 key components:

• The problem at the head of the fish
• The attributes that form the key function as the bones stemming out from the spine
• The problem areas within the attributes that are the potential causes of the problem on the head.

An example of the application of a fishbone diagram will be the typical 4S fishbone used in manufacturing. The 4S’s represent – systems, surroundings, skills, and suppliers. Each ‘s’ factor is accompanied by adjoint ‘bones’ which represent the issues in these attributes of the manufacturing process.

Below is an example of a 4S fishbone diagram:

Fishbone diagrams are often seen as a problem-solving tool, but they can also function as an excellent visual aid when issues need to be explained and coordinated with larger teams.

Here are some of the factors that make fishbone diagrams an important business tool:

• Visual problem solving: A fishbone diagram’s key utility comes from the fact that it is visual versus being a list or a spreadsheet. This allows one to expand the diagram to as many attributes and root causes as needed without being overwhelmed by the sheer number of underlying issues. Furthermore, the layout of the diagram allows one to incorporate both internal and external factors during analysis.
• Real problem-solving over treating symptoms: Often brainstorming sessions or company meetings may be spent trying to deal with symptoms of a problem, such as lower sales numbers or employee attrition, without trying to get to the root of the problems. A fishbone diagram starts with the goal of trying to identify the root causes, with the symptoms also getting their place in the diagram. This allows for holistic analysis and problem-solving, where symptoms are not ignored while being cognizant that the root cause needs to be identified to solve the larger problem.
• Easily presentable visual aid: One of the key issues with trying to solve a problem where the root cause or causes have been identified – is explaining this complex structure to company leaders and getting their cooperation. A fishbone diagram layout is a great alternative visual tool to show how multiple contributing factors are together causing the main problem, and how each of these root causes will need to be addressed in order to treat the main issue.

Learn more: 5 Unique Fishbone Diagram Applications

Fishbone diagrams use categories or branches to help organize and classify potential causes contributing to a problem. These categories can vary depending on the specific problem you’re addressing, but there are some common categories often used as a starting point. These categories include:

• People: This category encompasses factors related to human resources, such as skills, training, experience, communication, and motivation. Problems related to people might involve insufficient training, lack of teamwork, or individual skill deficiencies.
• Process: Process-related factors pertain to the steps, procedures, and workflows involved in a particular process. This category examines aspects like the sequence of activities, work instructions, workflow inefficiencies, and process variations.
• Equipment: Equipment includes any physical tools, machinery, or technology used in a process. Problems in this category can involve equipment malfunctions, outdated technology, or improper maintenance.
• Materials: Material-related causes address issues with the input materials, components, or supplies used in a process. Problems might arise from substandard materials, inconsistent quality, or inadequate inventory control.
• Environment: The environment category relates to the physical or external conditions where the process occurs. This can encompass factors like temperature, humidity, lighting, and workspace design. For instance, an uncomfortable or poorly lit workspace could impact productivity.
• Measurement: Measurement factors refer to the metrics, data, and key performance indicators (KPIs) used to assess the process or outcome. Problems in this category might include inaccurate data, improper data collection methods, or inadequate metrics for evaluating success.
• Methods: The methods category deals with the specific techniques, procedures, or strategies used in carrying out a process. Problems related to methods could involve outdated techniques, lack of standard operating procedures, or ineffective strategies.
• Management: Management-related causes relate to the leadership and organizational oversight of the process. Issues might arise from poor decision-making, lack of support, or inadequate resource allocation.
• Policies: Policies refer to the rules, regulations, and guidelines governing the process or the organization. Problems related to policies could involve conflicting rules, outdated policies, or overly restrictive guidelines.
• Safety: Safety issues include factors related to the physical safety of personnel, environmental safety, and the safety of products or services. Problems in this category might involve insufficient safety measures, inadequate training, or safety violations.
• Suppliers: Suppliers are external entities or organizations that provide materials, components, or services necessary for the process. Issues may stem from unreliable suppliers, late deliveries, or inconsistent quality of supplied materials.
• Technology: Technology encompasses the software, hardware, and digital tools used in a process. Problems might arise from incompatible software, software bugs, or outdated hardware, which can be addressed through appropriate hardware development services .

These categories serve as a starting point for brainstorming and organizing potential causes, but they can be customized and expanded to suit the specific problem you’re addressing. The goal is to identify all possible causes that could contribute to the problem, making the fishbone diagram a valuable tool for root cause analysis and problem-solving.

While the underlying method for any fishbone remains consistent, there are certain types that are widely used and serve as a standard template. Here are the 4 key types of fishbone diagrams commonly used today:

• Simple Fishbone Diagram

A simple fishbone is made up of only 2 attributes with causes attached to the main head representing the main problem to be solved. This diagram is used to solve problems where the causes can be grouped into two attributes. For example, while trying to analyze website traffic, one may choose to divide them into just 2 channels – organic and non-organic sources.

• 4S Fishbone Diagram

The 4S fishbone diagram (example above) is a standard manufacturing and industrial problem-solving tool, however, it can also be used for any product development process, including software development. The 4S of the fishbone represent suppliers (or simply input sources), skills, surroundings (any surrounding factor, including real estate or office space), and systems (including computer systems). The advantage of this diagram is that it limits the attributes to 4 factors while trying to broadly capture all key attributes, which helps focus on the underlying problems without expanding into too many attributes or departments.

• 8P Fishbone Diagram

The 8P fishbone is a typical enterprise fishbone that liberally allows expansion into 8 attributes, namely – price, product, people (employees and shareholders), place (or plant, in case of a physical factory or outlets), promotions (marketing), procedures, policies, and processes.

• 6M Fishbone Diagram

The 6M fishbone is a standard primarily set for manufacturing and rarely used outside of its intended scope. The 6 attributes are the man (human resources), machine (including computer systems and enterprise software stack), measurements (company metrics), materials, method, and mother nature (manufacturing and business environment).

Below is a 6M fishbone diagram example:

Here are three insightful examples showcasing their practical applications across diverse industries.

Example 1. Manufacturing Excellence

In the manufacturing sector, Fishbone diagrams are instrumental in addressing production bottlenecks. For instance, consider a scenario where a manufacturing line is experiencing unexpected downtime. By utilizing a Fishbone diagram, teams can systematically explore factors such as equipment malfunctions, process inefficiencies, or human error, leading to targeted solutions and improved operational efficiency.

Example 2. Healthcare Diagnostics

In healthcare, Fishbone diagrams prove invaluable for diagnosing and addressing challenges. Let’s take patient wait times in a hospital as an example. By categorizing potential causes such as staffing issues, scheduling inefficiencies, or communication gaps, healthcare professionals can streamline processes and enhance the overall patient experience.

Example 3. Software Development Hurdles

Even in the realm of software development, Fishbone diagrams find their place. Imagine a project facing delays; a Fishbone diagram can uncover the underlying causes, be it coding errors, communication breakdowns, or resource constraints. This methodical approach allows development teams to rectify issues promptly and ensure project timelines are met.

Integrating Fishbone Diagrams into Your Toolkit

Now that you’ve glimpsed the versatility of Fishbone diagrams through these examples, consider incorporating them into your problem-solving toolkit . Whether you operate in manufacturing, healthcare, software development, or any other industry, the Fishbone diagram offers a structured and visual approach to identifying and addressing challenges head-on.

Explore the possibilities, and empower your teams with this effective problem-solving methodology. The next time a complex issue arises, let the Fishbone diagram be your guide to uncovering root causes and driving impactful solutions.

Learn more: What is a Venn Diagram?

A fishbone diagram can go from being a simple 2 attribute diagram to complex like an 8P diagram or even more.

Here are the key steps to ensuring a successful fishbone diagram for identifying and solving root causes and problems:

• Identify the main problem to solve. This is the key issue around which the attributes will be laid out for the root cause analysis to take place.
• Create a straight line and on the head mention the main problem to be solved. For example, this could be reduced sales, lower factory output, more efficient budget, or poor product quality.
• The next step is to lay out contributing areas or departments, laid out in the form of spokes (or supporting bones) stemming out from the main problem (vertebral column). While laying out the main problem, you can be specific or broad, based on the number of attributes you can reasonably manage. Note that these are the areas that contain processes, people, or resources that may have contributed to the main enterprise problem at the head of the fish.
• Draw out the root issues within the attributes. Be as direct as possible since there are no deeper branches to expand for more details. The branching in a fishbone begins with the central line and ends with the root causes with the attributes in the middle.

• Get broad agreement on the core problem

One of the most critical preliminary preparations to do before you even draw the first line of the finebone diagram – is to ensure that you have a broad consensus on the core problem to be solved. Depending on the depth and impact, this may need to include just your manager or expand to company-wide senior management. This consensus will ensure that the right investments are being made towards solving the problem that needs immediate attention in the priority order.

• List down all possible attributes even if you condense them later

We have gone through types of fish bones, where the lowest was just 2 attributes and the highest was 8. However, it is a best practice to ensure that the potential fishbone attributes are listed out without consideration for the number of attributes in the final fishbone. This ensures that during the planning stage, all possible attributes are evaluated for potential issues. Based on understanding, the creator can now condense and group attributes where reasonably possible based on projected causes.

At times, there may be too many causes listed under one attribute as the fishbone begins to be drawn. This situation may be better served by splitting them into more attributes.

• Consult with department leaders and managers for cause-analysis

When it comes to the individual attributes, each needs specialist consultation to fully understand the scope and issues that may be arising. This means discussing the main problem and underlying issues with the company/ team leaders who are responsible for those departments or teams. Often they may come up with the issues alongside recommendations for solving them.

• Involve all stakeholders

It is likely that the problem and/or the solutions will affect other teams. Therefore, while analyzing for the root causes, it is important to include all stakeholders to the extent it is feasible. Depending on the company culture, solutions may get approved by the management and then communicated to other teams, or the management may insist on including other affected teams during the problem-analysis stage.

• Expand to multiple fishbones when needed

There may be cases when either the attributes or the underlying causes become too expansive to cover under one fishbone diagram. At this point, it may be a better idea to use multiple fishbones rather than the same diagram.

Learn more: What is UML Diagram?

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Table of Contents

What is a Fishbone diagram?

Fishbone diagrams explained.

A fishbone diagram (also known as an Ishikawa fishbone diagram) is an effective problem-solving tool. Instead of focusing on a quick fix, creating a fishbone diagram helps to identify the root cause of a problem and find a long-term solution.

As a type of cause and effect diagram , the “fishbone” name comes from the diagram’s resemblance to a fish skeleton. A fishbone diagram consists of three main categories:

There’s a fish head at the head of the diagram, where you’ll outline the problem you’re trying to solve. The rest of the diagram branches out from here.

The spine stems from the head of the diagram (the problem statement), providing the outline of the fish. At the end of each spinal bone is a category that needs to be considered as part of the problem-solving process.

Branching out from each spinal bone, you’ll see a smaller rib bone. This is where the possible causes will sit to help you pinpoint the potential cause of the problem.

Benefits of fishbone diagrams

Fishbone diagrams are useful tools for improving existing processes and pinpointing causes of issues. Take a look at some benefits of performing a fishbone diagram root cause analysis:

Easily find the root cause of a problem

A fishbone diagram is a visual tool that adds structure and clarity to problem-solving. It indicates the problem and its possible causes in a single location, making it easier for teams to conduct a root cause analysis .

Prevent further problems

By finding the root cause of the problem, you fix the problem at its source and mitigate future issues. As a result, you’re far more likely to prevent the same (or similar) problems from cropping up in the future.

Collaborate with your team

A fishbone diagram is a great way to work with your team to brainstorm solutions . It’s a collaborative diagram, encouraging teams to review all the available information and discuss the best course of action.

If you’re part of a remote or hybrid team, an online platform like Miro allows you to collaborate with your team, no matter where they work. Simply share the diagram and hop on a video chat, and you can perform your root cause analysis virtually.

Example of a fishbone diagram

To see a fishbone diagram in action, look at this CEDAC Template from NEXT LEVEL Partners.

CEDAC is an acronym for Cause and Effect Diagram with the Addition of Cards. The diagram contains issues on the left-hand side of the ribs and solutions on the right-hand side.

Its inventor, Ryuji Fukuda, created CEDAC so that teams can delve deeper into their problem-solving analyses. By adding cards to the diagram, teams have a way of questioning existing information and suggesting new ideas. As a result, they’ll gain a deeper understanding of their problems and how to solve them.

Here are some of the common areas where the CEDAC model can be helpful:

Product development

Visualize issues with product development using the CEDAC diagram. Collaborate with the product team to identify the cause of the problem and use cards to identify the best possible solution.

Software features

Effectively allocate resources based on team structures and capabilities. Understand the most critical problems to solve and how they map together.

Product design

Define failures or problems with your product design, and identify effective solutions. Using the diagram’s cards, product designers can generate new and creative solutions to improve the design.

Internal processes

Pinpoint bottlenecks and figure out how to streamline and improve your business processes. Encourage team members to join in the discussion and make suggestions for improving the process going forward.

When to use a fishbone diagram

Take a look at some of the different instances when using a fishbone diagram can be useful for you and your team.

1. To analyze a problem statement

If you have a clear problem statement for your business, a fishbone diagram is a great way to analyze it in detail. You can see the problem’s culprit and decide how to fix the issue.

2. To brainstorm the causes of the problem

Also known as root cause analysis, a fishbone diagram allows you to discuss the potential causes of a problem. It’s the perfect opportunity to host a brainstorming session to identify pressing concerns and work through possible solutions.

3. To analyze a new product design

Use a fishbone diagram to map your new product design and visualize any potential hurdles before they come your way. As a result, you can put preventative measures in place before going live.

4. To improve your processes

If you’re struggling to streamline your processes and inefficiencies, a fishbone diagram can help. Use a fishbone diagram to pinpoint the troublesome areas of your process and find the cause of a problem. From there, you can determine exactly how to fix it.

5. For quality improvement

Use a fishbone diagram to visualize how and where you can improve to offer your customers a higher-quality experience. For example, you might want to improve the quality of your customer service. In this case, you can use the diagram to find areas for improvement in your existing processes.

How to make a fishbone diagram

Follow these simple steps to create an effective fishbone diagram:

1. Select the Fishbone Diagram Template

While you can always build your own diagram from scratch, you can also get a headstart by selecting one of these Fishbone Diagram Templates . It’s free and easy to use, so you can start mapping your diagram immediately.

2. Outline your problem statement

When your diagram is ready to use, start by defining the problem. Otherwise known as a problem statement, this will sit at the head of the diagram. This must be as clear and concise as possible to find the right solution.

For example, in the diagram below, the main problem is that “40% of users cancel the subscription in the first month.” This statement clearly describes the problem and offers a solid starting point for finding a solution. Now, let’s consider how this would work if the statement were written differently — for example, “to increase customer retention.”

This statement is pretty vague, and there’s a lot of room for interpretation. Instead of focusing specifically on how to keep existing customers after the first month, teams might explore other avenues that won’t necessarily solve the actual problem.

The problem statement doesn’t have to be long and detailed. In fact, you should keep it short — ideally, no longer than a sentence. That way, it’ll be easy for your team to see the problem and won’t overcrowd the diagram. But the problem statement should always be clear and concise, leaving no room for interpretation.

If you’re new to problem statements or want a framework to guide you, look at Prime Motive’s Problem Framing Workshop Template .

3. Pinpoint your root causes

With your problem statement in place, you can now branch out and start to pinpoint the possible causes of the problem.

The specific causes will depend on what your problem statement is. For example, if your problem statement is related to product design, your root causes could include the following:

These are just a few examples. In your diagram, you might find that you have more or fewer root causes. With an intuitive platform like Miro, it’s easy to add or remove boxes based on how many you need.

When adding causes to your diagram, those with the biggest impact should be closest to the problem. The farther away a cause is from the head of the diagram, the less influence it has on the problem.

4. Identify individual causes

You can now identify the individual elements that contribute to the overall cause. These are the bones of the fish.

Let’s use an example to demonstrate how this works. Imagine that one of your root causes is “Equipment.” Here are some of the individual causes that might sit under this area:

You are using outdated and inefficient equipment

It’s expensive to replace existing equipment

There aren’t enough employees who know how to use the equipment

All of these elements could contribute to the problem you’re facing, but it’s up to you and your team to pinpoint the key elements at the root of the problem. Review all this information with your team, and you’ll be able to see which problem is most likely to have a long-term solution.

If you’re unsure how to identify the individual causes, look at the 5 Whys framework . It’s a simple brainstorming tool that helps teams explore the reasons behind a potential problem.

5. Create a plan of action

After working with your team to find the root cause of the problem, you can create an action plan for improvements. This involves mapping out the steps you need to take to solve your problem and how you’ll measure success (we suggest using the SMART Goals framework for this).

During this stage, be sure to focus on how to make lasting improvements. Don’t lose sight of the bigger picture in favor of a quick fix. The purpose of the fishbone diagram is to implement a long-lasting solution to your problem, so keep this in mind when creating your plan of action for the future.

Fishbone diagram categories: the 6Ms of production

The fishbone diagram is used across various industries, but the original diagram was created to improve the manufacturing process. The six methods (6Ms) of production come from this original diagram, and engineers and designers would use this structure to cover all their bases.

The 6Ms of production are as follows:

1. Manpower

The functional activity involved in designing and delivering a product.

The production process and any other processes that contribute to the delivery of the final product.

Any systems, tools, or equipment used in manufacturing.

4. Material

The raw materials and components needed to create the end product.

5. Milieu (or Mother Nature)

Any environmental factors, such as weather, floods, or fire. Although most milieu factors can’t be controlled, there are some instances where businesses can put preventative measures in place to mitigate problems.

6. Measurement

The physical measurements (volume, distance, temperature, and so on) of a product, machine, or workspace.

The 6Ms are only relevant if you’re using the fishbone diagram to improve a manufacturing or production process. If you’re using the diagram for any other purpose, there’s no need to follow this structure.

Discover more

How to build a fishbone diagram, fishbone diagram examples, what is a cause and effect diagram, what is root cause analysis, what is the 5 whys framework, 5 whys: examples, explanations, and how to find the causes of problems, get on board in seconds, plans and pricing.

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What is a fishbone diagram—and what can it do for you?

Any bump in the design process can be a learning opportunity. Maybe an unexpected setback is delaying product development, or you're worried your next release may not get rave customer reviews. Whatever issue you’re facing, the fishbone diagram is a simple and effective brainstorming tool that can help you solve problems—and keep them from cropping up in the first place.

Read on to learn more about:

• What a fishbone diagram is
• How a fishbone diagram can help you solve problems
• 5 steps to create a fishbone diagram—and FigJam tools that make it easy

Create your fishbone diagram with FigJam

Get started with FigJam's free fishbone diagram template today.

What’s a fishbone diagram?

A fishbone diagram is also known as the cause-and-effect diagram, because it highlights the causes of a current or potential problem, or any other deviation from your team’s standard workflow.  Companies use fishbone diagrams to help streamline processes, boost customer satisfaction, and drive better business outcomes.

The diagram actually looks like a fish skeleton. A horizontal arrow represents the fish spine and points to the problem (or effect), which is the head of the fish. Shorter arrows act as the fish ribs, branching out to expose the problem’s causes.

How the fishbone method solves problems

The fishbone method of analysis helps teams go deep with their problem-solving, uncovering key factors teams can target and troubleshoot. When used effectively, a fishbone diagram can help you 1 :

• Easily identify and categorize the causes —big and small—of a particular problem in a highly visual way.
• Develop actionable solutions more quickly by providing a structured yet flexible approach to address problems.
• Promote a more effective work environment by fostering better collaboration and communication across teams.
• Continuously improve your product or process by documenting root causes to avoid repeating the same mistakes in the future.

5 steps to create a fishbone diagram

Build your own fishbone diagram in five steps 2 :

Step 1: Define the problem.

Create a clear, concise problem statement. This should address a known issue or one you’re trying to prevent, such as “customer satisfaction rate for our app has fallen 20%.” Use FigJam’s online whiteboard to brainstorm and agree on a problem statement. Or try FigJam’s fishbone diagram template .

Step 2: Label potential issues.

You can use the six labels in the classic fishbone diagram (see sidebar), or create your own set of categories to suit the product and problem facing your team. For example, Mazda chose styling, touch, cornering, driving, listening, and braking as key issues to address in developing the MX5 Miata sports car.

Step 3: Brainstorm all possible causes.

Ask why this problem occurred, and organize possible causes by category. For example, under the people category, you might list causes for a drop in customer satisfaction as staff burnout, lack of training, or employee turnover. Some causes may fit under more than one category.

Step 4: Add more detail to your fishbone analysis.

Keep asking why to further identify sub-causes that contribute to the problem. FigJam’s 5 whys template will help you dig deeper.

Step 5: Review each cause and develop action items.

Work with your team to create a list of action items that will help solve the problem. Invite your team to check the finished diagram, making sure no detail has been overlooked (see sidebar).

Creative examples of fishbone diagrams

Popularized in Japan’s manufacturing industry in the 1960s, the fishbone or Ishikawa diagram is now industry-standard in multiple fields. From healthcare and higher education to retail and high tech, fishbone diagrams  help teams improve and innovate.

For inspiration, consider these creative examples from a range of industries:

• Product defects fishbone diagram , Journal of Minerals and Materials Characterization and Engineering
• Carver County Public Health fishbone diagram , Minnesota Department of Health
• Cause and effect of blurry photos , Michigan State University Extension
• Bad coffee fishbone diagram , Kaizen Consulting Group

The classic 6-rib fishbone diagram

A typical fishbone diagram includes six ribs , each labeled with a potential issue to address. This could include:

• People. Evaluate everyone involved in the process, including their skill level, training, and performance.
• Machines. Examine equipment and any maintenance or upgrades required to solve a problem.
• Materials. Assess the raw and finished materials used. Do they meet expectations?
• Environment. Consider external factors such as bad weather or safety issues that can affect the development cycle.
• Method. Audit your team’s process—the number of steps, their complexity, and any potential bottlenecks.
• Measurement. Review the way your process is measured, controlled, and monitored.

Fishbone analysis pitfalls to avoid

The simplicity of a fishbone diagram makes it easy to use and understand, but it can also make it harder to prioritize tasks. Of all the causes identified in a fishbone diagram, a problem’s main causes aren’t necessarily ranked ahead of minor ones. It’s up to you and your team to prioritize issues that will have the most impact versus those that won’t.

Fishbone diagrams can sometimes reflect human biases, so you'll need to work to maintain objectivity. Gather input from key players across your company to ensure your fishbone analysis is valid and complete.

Bone up on your fishbone diagrams with FigJam

Problem-solving is a team sport. Work together to zero in on root causes using FigJam’s online collaborative whiteboard , then organize them with FigJam’s ready-made fishbone diagram template . If you’d rather make one from scratch, use FigJam’s free diagramming tools to:

• Produce an easy-to-understand visual that clearly shows cause-and-effect relationships.
• Collaborate in real time with key stakeholders to make sure the causes included are accurate and actionable.
• Construct a polished diagram that supports your brand and is presentation-ready.

Want to see an example of a fishbone diagram created in FigJam? Check out these inspiring fishbone diagrams shared by the Figma community .

Now you’ve got what you need to solve problems—and prevent them, too.

Go to next section

[1] https://6sigma.com/benefits-of-using-the-fishbone-diagram/

[2] https://www.ahrq.gov/sites/default/files/wysiwyg/ncepcr/resources/job-aid-5-whys.pdf

Keep reading

How to create a swimlane diagram

Swimlane diagrams give flowcharts an extra-informative superpower.

How to create a flow chart

Having a flow chart can help visually represent actions or people in a complex situation.

What is a UML diagram

UML diagrams can help you plan complex systems and processes.

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7 Powerful Root Cause Analysis Tools and Techniques

By Sebastian Traeger

Updated: April 21, 2024

Reading Time: 5 minutes

1. The Ishikawa Fishbone Diagram (IFD)

2. pareto chart, 4. failure mode and effects analysis (fmea), 5. proact® rca method, 6. affinity diagram, 7. fault tree analysis (fta).

With over two decades in business – spanning strategy consulting, tech startups and executive leadership – I am committed to helping your organization thrive. At Reliability, we’re on a mission to help enhance strategic decision-making and operational excellence through the power of Root Cause Analysis, and I hope this article will be helpful!  Our goal is to help you better understand these root cause analysis techniques by offering insights and practical tips based on years of experience. Whether you’re new to doing RCAs or a seasoned pro, we trust this will be useful in your journey towards working hard and working smart.

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) shines as a pivotal process that helps organizations identify the underlying reasons for problems, failures, and inefficiencies. The goal is simple: find the cause, fix it, and prevent it from happening again. But the process can be complex, and that’s where various RCA techniques come into play. 

Let’s dive into seven widely utilized RCA techniques and explore how they can empower your team’s problem-solving efforts.

Named after Japanese quality control statistician Kaoru Ishikawa, the Fishbone Diagram is a visual tool designed for group discussions. It helps teams track back to the potential root causes of a problem by sorting and relating them in a structured way. The diagram resembles a fishbone, with the problem at the head and the causes branching off the spine like bones. This visualization aids in categorizing potential causes and studying their complex interrelationships.

The Pareto Chart, rooted in the Pareto Principle, is a visual tool that helps teams identify the most significant factors in a set of data. In most situations, 80% of problems can be traced back to about 20% of causes. By arranging bar heights from tallest to shortest, teams can prioritize the most significant factors and focus their improvement efforts where they can have the most impact.

The 5 Whys method is the epitome of simplicity in getting to the bottom of a problem. By repeatedly asking ‘why’ (typically five times), you can delve beneath the surface-level symptoms of a problem to unearth the root cause. This iterative interrogation is most effective when answers are grounded in factual evidence.

When prevention is better than cure, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) steps in. This systematic, proactive method helps teams identify where and how a process might fail. By predicting and examining potential process breakdowns and their impacts, teams can rectify issues before they turn into failures. FMEA is a three-step process that involves identifying potential failures, analyzing their effects, and prioritizing them based on severity, occurrence, and detection ratings.

The PROACT ® RCA technique is a robust process designed to drive significant business results. Notably used to identify and analyze ‘chronic failures,’ which can otherwise be overlooked, this method is defined by its name:

PReserving Evidence and Acquiring Data: Initial evidence collection step based on the 5-P’s – Parts, Position, People, Paper, and Paradigms.

Order Your Analysis Team and Assign Resources: Assembling an unbiased team to analyze a specific failure.

Analyze the Event: Reconstructing the event using a logic tree to identify Physical, Human, and Latent Root Causes.

Communicate Findings and Recommendations: Developing and implementing solutions to prevent root cause recurrence.

Track and Measure Impact for Bottom Line Results: Tracking the success of implemented recommendations and correlating the RCA’s effectiveness with ROI.

PROACT® RCA excels in mitigating risk, optimizing cost, and boosting performance, making it a valuable addition to any RCA toolkit.

The Affinity Diagram is a powerful tool for dealing with large amounts of data. It organizes a broad range of information into groups based on their natural relationships, creating a clear, visual representation of complex situations. It’s particularly beneficial for condensing feedback from brainstorming sessions into manageable categories, fostering a better understanding of the broader picture.

Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) is a top-down, deductive failure analysis that explores the causes of faults or problems. It involves graphically mapping multiple causal chains to track back to possible root causes, using a tree-like diagram. FTA is particularly useful in high-risk industries, such as aerospace and nuclear power, where preventing failure is crucial.

Each RCA technique provides a unique approach for viewing and understanding problems, helping you pinpoint the root cause more effectively. The key is to understand when and how to use each tool, which can significantly enhance your team’s problem-solving capabilities.

Power up your RCA analysis with our EasyRCA and revolutionize your problem-solving process. Start Your Free Trial.

In conclusion, the techniques presented offer a diverse set of tools to help organizations address problems and inefficiencies effectively. From visual representations like the Ishikawa Fishbone Diagram and Pareto Chart to more proactive approaches such as the 5 Whys and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), each technique provides a unique perspective on identifying and mitigating root causes.

The PROACT® RCA Method stands out for its comprehensive process, particularly suited for chronic failures. Additionally, the Affinity Diagram and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) contribute valuable insights by organizing data and exploring causal chains, respectively. Leveraging these techniques strategically enhances a team’s problem-solving capabilities, enabling them to make informed decisions and drive continuous improvement.

I hope you found these 7 techniques insightful and actionable! Stay tuned for more thought-provoking articles as we continue to share our knowledge. Success is rooted in a thorough understanding and consistent application, and we hope this article was a step in unlocking the full potential of Root Cause Analysis for your organization. Reliability runs initiatives such as an online learning center focused on the proprietary PROACT® RCA methodology and EasyRCA.com software. For additional resources, visit our Reliability Resources .

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Fishbone diagrams: How to use them for problem-solving

October 5, 2023 by MindManager Blog

When something goes wrong, it’s essential to understand the root cause in order to prevent it from occurring again.

However, life and business are both complex, making it difficult to identify at times the underlying causes which created the situation you’re facing now. That’s where and when a fishbone diagram can help!

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about fishbone diagrams and how to use them for problem-solving.

What is a fishbone diagram?

Fishbone diagrams (also called Ishikawa diagrams and cause-and-effect diagrams) are visualizations used to identify and illustrate the causes for a specific event. Potential causes are often brainstormed and then categorized in order to identify a problem’s root cause.

The diagram gets its name due to the branches radiating out from the main issue in a way that resembles a side view of a fish skeleton. However, the process can be applied to most mind map layouts.

Here’s a fishbone diagram example:

When to use fishbone diagrams

Fishbone diagrams help focus you and your team’s energy on the root cause of a problem instead of merely addressing and wasting time on the symptoms.

Here are a few common applications of Fishbone diagrams:

Manufacturing: Discover the root cause of a manufacturing issue by brainstorming and ranking the likelihood and impact of all the areas that influence the production process.

How to create a fishbone diagram in MindManager in 5 steps

Fishbone diagrams are quick to make in MindManager and the examples above are included as templates to make it even easier.

MindManager’s ease of capturing ideas during brainstorming makes it the ideal tool to capture and organize potential causes. The visual format allows you to see all the causes simultaneously, draw relationships between causes, and identify if the root cause is found multiple times within the diagram.

Here’s how to create a fishbone diagram:

• In MindManager, go to the File menu, select New and then click into the Problem-Solving folder. There you’ll find three templates for Fishbones, the manufacturing, service, and product analyses. Select a template.
• Enter the issue in the central topic.
• Next, either brainstorm potential causes and add them as floating topics initially and categorize them after the brainstorming session. Or, use each category as a guide for a mini-brainstorm session and enter the potential causes directly in the appropriate branch.
• Add more details to your causes as new subtopics or notes with the cause itself.
• Once all the potential causes have been identified, you can take the diagram a step further and rank each cause. One way to do this would be to use the Priority marker to rank the cause between 1 and 9. You can later filter the diagram and view specific priorities and hide the less important ones that will distract the focus of the team.

Key MindManager features for fishbone diagrams

There is no one single ‘right’ way to create, categorize, or rank items within a fishbone diagram.

With that said, here’s a list of ways to apply some of MindManager’s features to transform an ordinary diagram into a powerful application to visualize and empower your work.

• Use color (fonts, topic fill color) to categorize different causes.
• Change the font characteristics to emphasize different causes (e.g. bold, larger fonts, different font types, etc.).
• Use topic images to add greater context and enhance the visualizations.
• Write topic notes for more in-depth details related to each cause.
• Apply icons and tags to categorize causes.
• Hyperlink or add attachments to provide more details.
• Draw relationship lines between different connected causes throughout the diagram.
• Assign resources to any causes that you have identified. This may clarify who is responsible or accountable for that cause.
• Collapse branches for a quick overview or drill down into all the details.
• View the diagram through multiple lenses. For instance, you are not confined to the layout of the Fishbone diagram. Switch views to see the diagram as an outline, or dive in the Schedule, Icon or Tag views to see your content in groupings based on your assigned categories or due dates.
• Filter content to either show or hide topics that you have annotated with tags or icon markers. For instance, filter on all the top priority potential causes that need additional investigation.
• Share your diagram by either publishing it onto the web (and sharing a link) where anyone can open and view the Fishbone diagram interactively in their browser or export the diagram into a variety of different formats (e.g. Microsoft Word, HTML5, Microsoft Project, etc.).

Download MindManager today to get started on your fishbone diagram!

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• Submission Guidelines

fishbone 2021 header

Learning Objectives

After completing the lesson you will be able to:

1)  Define  root cause analysis (RCA)

2)  Demonstrate RCA using a Fishbone Diagram 

Case Study: “Why don’t we get paged sooner?”

At an HCI Clinic, providers are often delayed in how soon they see a patient during a new visit appointment. Typical delays (wait time) from check-in to provider page was 20 minutes. This 20-minute delay presented a cascade of problems for patients and care teams. For patients, it limited face-to-face time with a provider. For residents, the lack of time hindered care - building rapport with patients, potentially missing important details that help inform the care plan. The delay also caused resident job dissatisfaction. To identify all the moving parts in this complex (yet seemingly simple) problem, the team turned to the fishbone diagram as a useful tool to investigate the multiple causes of delay.

Health care’s problem solving toolkit

health care, we rely on evidence-based methods for solving problems. Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a collective term that describes a wide range of approaches used to investigate a problem and its causes.

When we talk about a problem we often refer to its impact. We know how it impacts us personally, our system, patients, and/or customers. But our experience of the problem—it’s impact—doesn’t really tell us why it’s happening—the cause. If we don’t know the cause, we won’t be able to prevent it from happening again. Investigating a problem and its causes can result in long-term solutions, which is an essential part of our patient safety journey .

Fishbone Diagram

Fishbone thumb.

Download the Fishbone Diagram Quick Tips here .

Download a U of U Health PowerPoint Fishbone Diagram template here .

An easy to use tool for conducting a root cause analysis

What it is: The fishbone diagram Also referred to as “Ishikawa cause and effect” after Japanese founder and quality control expert Kaoru Ishikawa. is a tool to organize ideas and theories about what causes a problem or an event.

How it works: Teams work together to brainstorm and identify potential causes and group them into several categories to help highlight potential issues. Frequently used categories include people (or patients/providers/stakeholders), culture, method (or process), technology, equipment, supplies, etc. (customize categories as needed).

Follow Four Steps to Fishbone:

Fishbone steps4 01.

Three Tips for facilitating a fishbone

A successful fishbone diagram is led by a facilitator—one individual on the team who’s job is to remain impartial to the discussion, write down the identified causes on the fishbone diagram, and let the participant discussion flow freely.

Here are the top three tips for leading a successful fishbone:

#1: Help the team focus on identifying causes, not solutions.  It’s common for people to brainstorm solutions (how to fix), rather than causes (what to fix). Simply acknowledge any comments by writing them to the side (don’t disregard any comments, it’s demoralizing) and help everyone remember the difference between the two. For example, if the problem is delays at patient check-in, “add front desk personnel” offers a solution (how to fix). Whereas “front desk is short-staffed” focuses on a potential cause (what to fix).

#2: The cause is more important than the category.  People often get confused or stuck on what category a cause should go into. As a facilitator, remind the participants that listing the cause is more important than where it goes. For example, “front desk is short-staffed” could be placed under the category of People, but also Culture.

Sometimes a main category can become too big. A common one is to start with the “People” category, but by the time 10 causes are identified under that category, you may choose to split it, for example as: “Nurses” and “Doctors.”

#3: Keep brainstorming until the ideas run out.  People are often unsure of how many causes to identify. As long as the discussion keeps going, people are still brainstorming. When the silence starts to creep in, you have your first clue that perhaps you have enough to get started. 

As facilitator, you will write the statements as they come out during the discussion. If you have to paraphrase what was said (because of space requirements, complexity, etc.) confirm with the group that what you wrote was what was said.

See it applied

Returning to our introduction case study, the Oncology residents first mapped the process to identify where it was breaking down. They then brainstormed as a team and came up with the following categories and causes.

HCI Huntsman Clinic Check in to Provider Page Process Fishbone Diagram

fishbone full

Oncology team: Lindsay Burt, MD; Chris Baker, MD; Chris Weil, MD; Josh Gruhl, MD; Matthew arsons, MD; Ryan Hutten, MD; Ryan Kraus, MD; Timothy Griffith MD

Solving the age-old problems of health care doesn’t require more solutions. It requires better understanding of problems. The oncology residents found the fishbone a useful tool to illustrate how many variables contribute to a seemingly simple question: “why don’t we get paged sooner?” By breaking the problem into a series of categorized causes, the team identified overlap between workflows. Using this information, the team is now prioritizing causes from high-to-low effort to begin making improvements.

*Originally published Janurary 2021

Why do some organizations thrive during a crisis while others flounder? Iona Thraen, director of patient safety, joined forces with her ARUP Laboratory colleagues to learn how the world-renowned national reference lab adapted to the pandemic. Leaders created a culture of safety by putting innovation, learning, and patient-centered care at the heart of all their efforts.

Finding evidence to change the status quo isn’t easy; thinking about evidence in terms of how it persuades—whether subjective or objective—can make it easier. Plastic surgery resident Dino Maglić and his colleagues followed their guts and saved money by improving the laceration trays used to treat patients in the emergency department.

Every summer, senior value engineer Cindy Spangler stocks our offices with an abundance of tomatoes, zucchini, and squash. We asked her to share how improvement thinking influences her gardening. Turns out, there are parallels–learn from others, stick to your scope, and learn from the mistakes.

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How to Use a Fishbone Diagram for Effective Problem-Solving

Learn how to use a fishbone diagram for effective problem-solving. This guide covers its benefits, tips for use, and real-world examples.

Learn how to use a fishbone diagram, a powerful visual tool that helps identify and solve complex problems. This article covers the history and uses of the fishbone diagram, as well as a step-by-step guide on how to create one. You’ll also discover the benefits of using fishbone diagrams, tips for effective problem-solving, and real-world examples from different industries. Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or team member, this article will provide you with the tools and knowledge to improve your problem-solving skills and make better decisions.

1. Introduction to Fishbone Diagram

The Fishbone Diagram, also known as the Ishikawa Diagram or Cause-and-Effect Diagram, was developed in the 1960s by Kaoru Ishikawa, a Japanese quality control expert. Ishikawa developed the diagram as a tool for identifying and analyzing the causes of defects in manufacturing processes.

The Fishbone Diagram has since been widely adopted in various industries for problem-solving and process improvement. Its success in identifying the root causes of problems has made it a valuable tool for quality management, as well as for innovation and product design.

In addition to manufacturing, the Fishbone Diagram has been applied to many other fields, such as healthcare, education, and business. Its versatility and simplicity make it an effective problem-solving tool that can be used by individuals and teams at all levels of an organization.

A Fishbone Diagram is a visual tool used to identify and analyze the potential causes of a problem or an effect. The diagram takes the form of a fish skeleton, with the “head” representing the problem or effect and the “bones” representing the potential causes. The bones are typically labeled with categories, such as people, process, equipment, materials, or environment, and each category is then broken down further to identify specific factors that could be contributing to the problem or effect. 

The resulting diagram provides a clear and organized way to understand the root causes of a problem, making it easier to develop effective solutions. Fishbone Diagrams can be created by hand, but they are also available as pre-made templates in presentation software such as MS PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, and Google Slides, making it easy to use them in business and academic settings.

2. How to create a Fishbone Diagram

To create a Fishbone Diagram, follow these steps:

• Identify the problem or the effect you want to analyze.
• Define the main cause of the problem or effect.
• Identify the major categories that contribute to the main cause.
• Break down each category into more detailed causes that contribute to it.
• Draw the Fishbone Diagram, with the main cause at the head of the fish and the major categories as the bones.

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3. The benefits of using Fishbone Diagrams:

Fishbone Diagrams offer several benefits, including:

• Better problem-solving and decision-making by identifying and analyzing the root causes of a problem or effect.
• Improved communication and collaboration among team members by providing a visual representation of the problem and its causes.
• Clear identification of causes and their relationships, can help to prioritize and address the most critical causes.
• Identification of potential solutions based on the analysis of the causes.

4. Tips for using Fishbone Diagrams:

To get the most out of Fishbone Diagrams, consider the following tips:

• Involve a diverse team of people with different backgrounds and perspectives.
• Keep an open mind and embrace different ideas and viewpoints.
• Prioritize the most critical causes and solutions, based on the analysis of the Fishbone Diagram.
• Review and revise the Fishbone Diagram as necessary, to ensure it accurately reflects the problem and its causes.

5. Real-world examples of Fishbone Diagrams:

Fishbone Diagrams can be used in many different industries and settings, including healthcare, manufacturing, and service industries. Here are a few examples:

• In healthcare, Fishbone Diagrams have been used to identify and address the root causes of medical errors and patient safety incidents.
• In manufacturing, Fishbone Diagrams have been used to analyze the causes of defects and inefficiencies in the production process.
• In service industries, Fishbone Diagrams have been used to identify and address the causes of customer complaints and service quality issues.

Fishbone Diagrams are a powerful tool for effective problem-solving and decision-making. By following the steps for creating a Fishbone Diagram and using the tips and examples provided, you can use this tool to identify and address the root causes of a problem or effect and make better decisions for your organization.

Whether you are just getting started with Fishbone Diagrams or looking to improve your problem-solving skills, PoweredTemplate has got you covered. Download free and premium presentation templates from PoweredTemplate that include Fishbone Diagrams that work in PowerPoint, Keynote, and Google Slides. These creative templates are designed to help you identify the root cause of complex problems and come up with effective solutions. With a range of customizable templates available, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. 

Don’t wait any longer, start streamlining your problem-solving process with PoweredTemplate today!

Fishbone Diagram

A fishbone diagram, also known as an Ishikawa diagram or cause and effect diagram, is a tool used to identify the root causes of a problem. It is named after Japanese quality control expert Kaoru Ishikawa, who developed the concept in the 1960s. Organizations across a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and service use the fishbone diagram to identify and analyze the factors that contribute to a particular problem or issue.

Teams typically use a fishbone diagram to identify all of the possible causes of a specific problem or effect. You construct it by drawing a horizontal line with the problem or effect written at the end, and then drawing lines coming off of the central line to represent the different categories of causes. Teams typically label it with the major contributing factors, such as people, equipment, materials, environment, and methods.

Once a team determines the categories, the next step is to brainstorm and list out all of the potential causes within each category. You then draw the causes as branches off of the main lines, with each branch representing a specific cause.

Once a team has identified and listed all of the causes, the next step is to analyze the relationships between the causes to identify the root causes of the problem. You can do this through a variety of techniques, such as the 5 Whys method, which involves asking why the problem occurs repeatedly until the root cause is identified.

Once a team has identified the root causes, the next step is to develop and implement solutions to address those root causes. This can involve making changes to processes, equipment, training, or other factors that contribute to the problem.

The fishbone diagram is a valuable tool for identifying and addressing the root causes of a problem. By systematically analyzing the factors that contribute to a problem, organizations can develop effective solutions and improve the overall performance and quality of their processes.

Fishbone Diagram Example

When building a fishbone team members should be careful to include only the actual physical causes. It can be tempting to include items someone believes is happening or wishes were happening. Consequently, a fishbone can turn into a “wishbone” diagram.

Additional Resources on the Fishbone Diagram

• Ask Art: How Useful is Six Sigma and the Black Belts and Green Belts that Come with It?
• Jim Womack on how lean compares with Six Sigma, Re-engineering, TOC, TPM, etc., etc.
• Not Every Problem Is a “Nail” But Companies Typically Reach for the Same Old “Hammer”
• Why A3 Thinking is the Ideal Problem-Solving Method
• Developing Problem Solvers
• Fishbone Diagrams and Mind Maps

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Blog Data Visualization How to Use Fishbone Diagrams to Solve Complex Problems

How to Use Fishbone Diagrams to Solve Complex Problems

Written by: Lydia Hooper Sep 10, 2021

Oftentimes, diagrams are used for visualizing and explaining complex topics, patterns and systems to others. But they are often also useful for helping us explore and better understand these things ourselves.

Fishbone diagrams (or cause and effect diagrams) are specifically used to help us solve complex problems.

Let’s say your team is looking to better understand why a certain product is not as successful as you’d like it to be. By creating a fishbone diagram, you can investigate the causes of certain outcomes, thereby identify how to improve them moving forward:

CREATE THIS DIAGRAM TEMPLATE

Let’s go through what a fishbone diagram is, when you should and should not use it, how to create a fishbone diagram and how to conduct fishbone analysis. You can then create your own fishbone diagram using Venngage’s Diagram Maker —no design experience required.

Table of contents:

What is a fishbone diagram, when to use a fishbone diagram, when not to use a fishbone diagram, how businesses can use fishbone diagrams.

• How to create and use a fishbone diagram

Fishbone diagrams are also known as Ishikawa diagrams, named after Professor Kaoru Ishikawa who was a pioneer in the field of quality management and who created this unique visualization.

Although they were initially used for quality improvement, today fishbone diagrams can be helpful for all kinds of problem-solving. For example, this one lists different factors that can lead to a healthy lifestyle.

Return to Table of Contents

Here’s what fishbone diagrams are best used for.

Addressing complex problems

As you can see, the fishbone diagram example above allows a viewer to see several factors at once, making it a great diagram for sharing a lot of complex information.

The most important thing about these diagrams is that they help teams recognize the reasons behind specific outcomes, or in other words—the root causes that lead to effects. They are ideal for addressing complex problems that have multiple causes, such as climate change:

Facilitating reflective analysis

Fishbone diagrams are useful for reflective analysis.

If teams are primarily focused on KPIs, these diagrams can provide context that is otherwise missing, helping folks better understand what’s causing numbers to rise or fall.

Teams can identify where mistakes are being made, revenue is being lost, as well as what activities are leading to the best results.

Planning for desired outcomes

Fishbone diagrams are also helpful for future planning. By referencing a fishbone diagram, teams can better identify the best methods for reaching desired outcomes and plan actions accordingly.

You can customize this fishbone diagram template to develop concrete plans for improving customer satisfaction:

There are a few situations where you should use a different form of data visualization instead of fishbone diagrams.

When there’s one cause of multiple problems

While fishbone diagrams are ideal for scenarios in which there are multiple causes for a single problem, it’s not ideal for the reverse: when there is a common cause for several separate problems. If you are seeking to show this, a mind map might be a better fit.

CREATE THIS MIND MAP TEMPLATE

When the order of causes and effects maters

If you want to show specific sequences of causes and effects, a flowchart is the better option:

CREATE THIS CHART TEMPLATE

Related: What is a Problem-Solving Flowchart & How to Make One

When you’re looking at correlation, not causation

It’s critical to also remember that correlation and causation are two entirely different things. The quintessential example of this is how ice cream sales and sunscreen sales both rise in summer, but one type of these sales is not leading to the other.

If you are wanting to describe correlation instead of causation, a scatterplot is a common visualization.

Now that you know generally when to use and not to use these diagrams, let’s look at the two major ways businesses use fishbone diagrams to help them solve complex problems.

Analyze how conditions and motivations lead to actions and outcomes

Companies, employees, and customers face problems regularly. Declining leads, cash flow, productivity, satisfaction, retention—all of these problems have causes. Knowing these causes can make all the difference.

Here’s an example of a fishbone diagram that details the many factors that can contribute to missed deadlines:

It’s a big deal to be able to do this type of analysis. Not analyzing things like environments, people, and processes can lead to major unintended consequences.

For example:

• Poor training of employees can lead to inconsistencies in the workplace.
• Flawed KPIs can lead to disasters as dramatic as legal consequences, as Wells Fargo experienced .
• Artificial intelligence (AI) if implemented without human leadership can lead to errors, hazards, and institutionalized bias, as Bain consultancy describes.
• Outsourcing of labor overseas can reduce company loyalty and eliminate jobs domestically and eventually abroad, according to Investopedia .

Strategize based on how actions or inactions lead to positive or negative impacts

If you really want to change outcomes and impacts, analysis alone will be insufficient. Fishbone diagrams can also help companies plan improvements in policies, management, systems, etc.

This fishbone diagram example outlines some of the many factors that can lead to low productivity:

Once you’ve pinpointed the causes of problems, it’s much easier to take action to solve them.

How to create and use a fishbone diagram

1. select the outcome or effect you want to investigate.

What problem are you solving? What impacts or outcomes do you want to better understand? What do you want to improve?

Once you know this, you can select a Venngage fishbone diagram template and begin easily creating your diagram. Start by specifying as much as possible the key outcome on the right of the diagram, at the head.

2. Identify big categories of causes

Some of the more common categories are:

• Environment
• Measurement

You can use these categories if they make sense, or you may think of others that are more appropriate. It’s generally smart to use a total of four, six or eight categories.

A simple fishbone diagram would just include only these categories, like in this example:

In your design, you can use colors to help people distinguish categories from one another.

3. Generate a comprehensive list of contributing factors

Depending on the topic, you may want to dive deeper. The main categories can inspire you to think more critically about multiple factors that may lie in each of them.

This deeper dive will likely require team dialogues and/or conversations with different employees, customers, and other stakeholders. There may be other research you want to do such as reading case studies, observing behaviors, and/or conducting competitor analysis.

You can consider breaking the diagram into top and bottom halves, if that can add additional meaning, like in this example:

The diagram should adapt to your growing list. Add all the branches that are relevant to the right off the main stem extending from the head on the left. Use short phrases that describe the cause precisely and succinctly.

4. Analyze and reflect

Chances are that as you generated the categories and lists of causes, you began to consider all the things that are contributing to the outcome you selected. Even if you haven’t developed a completely exhaustive list, you are now ready to pause, take a step back, and think things through in a different way.

To pivot from thinking about the problem to thinking about the solution takes a shift in mindset. Being able to see everything at once in a fishbone diagram can facilitate this. It can help you expand your thinking and witness more fully the immense possibilities for change.

Visuals can also elicit emotions, and that’s important too. You may need to feel your sadness or anger about missed opportunities and other losses, and you will definitely be buoyed by feelings of curiosity and excitement about what you may be able to change.

Fishbone diagrams are powerful tools for reflection, but make no mistake, it’s the reflection that gets you really ready to change things.

5. Plan and take action

The journey to the root has prepared you to solve the problem at hand. Depending on how many categories and causes you’ve unearthed, and the support and resources you have, you can begin to prioritize which causes you will address first, and what you will work to shift over the long term. You might set new goals, and possibly new measures, accordingly.

The diagram you’ve created can be shared to help educate and motivate stakeholders to take action. You can add your brand colors and design details like icons using Venngage so it’s not only useful but visually engaging as well.

Summary: Use a fishbone diagram for root cause analysis, reflective analysis, future planning and more

Fishbone diagrams are not just attractive visuals for impressing others. They are visual tools that help us do some of the most valuable work there is: solving complex problems.

They can spur us to investigate and name what we can change. And because they are visual, we can continue to reference them as we make these changes, so we can stay on track.

Start creating a fishbone diagram today using Venngage’s drag-and-drop editor and easy-to-edit templates. No design experience required.

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Fishbone Diagram Cause and Effect

A diagram of fishbone helps us to identify the root causes of a problem or risk and develop solutions to those problems. It is shaped like a fish skeleton, with the problem statement at the head and the causes branching off like bones. Fishbone diagrams can be a helpful tool for teams to brainstorm and identify the root causes of a problem. They can also be used to track progress over time and ensure that all possible causes of a problem have been considered. In this article, we will study a fishbone diagram in detail, its components, and the steps to create a fishbone diagram. well-labeled

A well-labeled diagram of fishbone is given below:

Fishbone Diagram

Table of Content

What is the Fishbone Diagram?

Elements of fishbone diagram, how to make a fishbone diagram, fishbone diagram example for students, tips for effective use of fishbone diagram, when to use a cause and effect diagram, advantages of fishbone diagram, disadvantages of fishbone diagram.

A fishbone diagram, also known as an Ishikawa diagram or cause-and-effect diagram, is a visual tool used for problem-solving and root cause analysis. It’s structured like a fish skeleton, with the problem at the “head” and potential causes branching off as “bones.” These branches represent different categories, such as People, Processes, Equipment, Environment, and Materials. Organizing causes in this way helps teams systematically identify and understand the root causes of a problem. The method is used in various industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, to facilitate collaborative problem-solving and decision-making processes.

The components of a Fishbone Diagram include:

• Problem Statement: It define the issue or problem that needs to be addressed.
• Main Bone: It represent the main categories or factors which contribute to the problem. Commonly used categories include People, Process, Environment, Equipment, and Materials (the 5 Ps).
• Secondary Bones: It branch off from the main bone and represent sub-categories or specific factors within each main category.
• Cause Categories: These are the factors or causes within each secondary bone. They represent the specific aspects contributing to the problem.
• Cause and Effect Relationship Arrows: These connect the cause categories to the secondary and main bones, indicating the relationship between each cause and the overall problem.
• Analysis: The diagram is used to identify potential causes and their relationships to the problem. It facilitate analysis and problem-solving.
• Solutions: Once causes are identified, develop solutions to address each cause that aim to resolve the overall problem.

To make a fishbone diagram follow the following steps:

• Define the Problem: Clearly identify the problem or issue that needs to be addressed.
• Determine Categories: Decide on the main categories of factors that could contribute to the problem. Common categories include People, Process, Equipment, Environment, and Materials.
• Draw the Main Bone: Draw a horizontal line representing the backbone of the fish, with the problem statement at the “head” of the fish.
• Add Major Branches: Extend diagonal lines from the main bone to represent the major categories. Label each branch accordingly.
• Identify Sub-categories: If necessary, add secondary branches off the major categories to provide further detail.
• Brainstorm Causes: Brainstorm causes within each category and sub-category. Write them as branches extending from the appropriate category lines.
• Analyze Causes: Evaluate and prioritize the identified causes to determine their significance.
• Implement Solutions: Based on the analysis, develop and implement solutions to address the root causes identified on the Fishbone Diagram.
• Review and Refine: Continuously review and refine the Fishbone Diagram as new information becomes available or as the problem-solving process progresses.

An example of fishbone diagram is given below:

• Problem Statement: Decline in Fish Population in River X.
• Environmental Factors
• Human Activities
• Natural Predators
• Temperature fluctuations
• Changes in river flow patterns
• Habitat destruction due to erosion
• Pollution from nearby industries
• Overfishing
• Habitat destruction due to construction activities
• Increase in predatory species due to ecological imbalance
• Migration of larger predators into the river
• Pollution from agricultural runoff
• Contamination from sewage discharge
• Decrease in oxygen levels due to eutrophication
• Pollution from nearby industries: Specific chemicals released into the river
• Overfishing: Illegal fishing practices or lack of fishing regulations
• Habitat destruction due to construction activities: Loss of spawning grounds or nesting areas
• Evaluate each cause in terms of its impact on fish population decline and likelihood of occurrence.
• Prioritize causes based on their significance.
• Implement stricter regulations on industrial waste disposal.
• Enforce fishing quotas and promote sustainable fishing practices.
• Implement habitat restoration projects to mitigate the effects of construction activities.
• Continuously monitor fish population in the river and environmental factors.
• Adjust the Fishbone Diagram as new information becomes available.

Some tips for the effective use of the fishbone diagram are as follows:

• Clearly define the problem.
• Select relevant categories.
• Encourage collaborative brainstorming.
• Keep the diagram visually clear.
• Prioritize causes based on impact.
• Support analysis with data.
• Continuously review and refine.
• Implement actionable solutions.
• Monitor effectiveness over time.
• Use as a reference tool for ongoing improvement

A fishbone diagram or a cause and effect diagram can be used in the following situations:

• Problem-Solving: When there’s a need to identify and analyze the root causes of a problem or issue.
• Quality Improvement: To investigate quality-related issues in processes, products, or services.
• Process Improvement: To understand factors contributing to inefficiencies in processes.
• Risk Management: To assess risks and their underlying causes in projects.
• Decision-Making: When making decisions that require a thorough understanding of all factors involved and their interrelationships.
• Team Collaboration: To facilitate collaborative problem-solving and decision-making among team members.
• Continuous Improvement: As part of a continuous improvement process to identify areas for enhancement and implement solutions.

Advantages of the fishbone diagram are:

• Provides a clear and visual representation of the various potential causes and their relationships to the problem.
• Provides a systematic and structured approach to analyze root causes.
• Encourages collaboration among team members by involving them in the brainstorming process and results in shared understanding of the problem.
• Encourages data-based decision-making by using evidence and data to support the identification and analysis of causes.
• Enhances communication among team members by providing a common visual tool for discussing and understanding the problem and its causes.
• Can be used in various industries and contexts, including manufacturing, healthcare, project management, and quality management, making it a versatile tool for problem-solving.

Disadvantages of the fishbone diagram are:

• Fishbone diagrams may oversimplify complex issues by categorizing causes into predefined groups.
• The categorization of causes can be subjective, depending on the perspective of the individuals involved.
• Effective use of Fishbone Diagrams depends on active participation and collaboration among team members, which may be challenging to achieve in some situations.
• If not properly explained, Fishbone Diagrams may be misinterpreted, leading to incorrect conclusions or ineffective solutions.
• Requires time, effort, and input from multiple stakeholders.

Conclusion – Fishbone Diagram Cause and Effect

A fishbone diagram is a visual tool that helps identify the main causes and subcauses of a problem. It consists of a central horizontal line representing the problem or effect being analyzed, with diagonal lines branching off like the bones of a fish. Each branch represents a cause or category of causes contributing to the problem. The diagram help identify the underlying issues and help in generating solutions. The fishbone diagram is a structured approach for understanding the various factors influencing a problem, helping teams to pinpoint root causes and devise effective strategies for resolution.

FAQs on Fishbone Diagram Cause and Effect

A fishbone diagram is a visual tool that helps identify the root causes of a problem. It’s also called an Ishikawa diagram or cause-and-effect diagram.

What are the 6 Parts of the Fishbone Diagram?

The six parts of a fishbone diagram include the problem or effect, main causes or categories, sub-causes or subcategories, root causes, contributing factors, and solutions or actions.

What are the 4 P’s of the Fishbone Diagram?

The 4 P’s of the fishbone diagram are People, Processes, Policies, and Plant/Technology, representing categories of causes contributing to a problem or effect.

What are the 4 Ms of a Fishbone Diagram?

The 4 Ms of a fishbone diagram are Manpower, Machinery, Materials, and Methods, representing key categories of causes contributing to a problem or effect.

What are the 5 Steps for Creating a Fishbone Diagram?

The five steps for creating a fishbone diagram involve defining the problem, identifying major categories of causes (such as the 4 Ms or 4 P’s), brainstorming possible causes within each category, organizing causes onto the diagram, and analyzing to find root causes for effective problem-solving.

Who Invented Fishbone Diagram?

Kaoru Ishikawa invented the fishbone diagram in the 1960s.

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Fishbone Diagrams for Consequential Problem-Solving

Visualize Processes and Improve

The most successful businesses are not perfect. They are resilient. Every business encounters problems; most encounter them frequently. The ones that thrive are developing a problem-solving culture and arm employees with the tools to find and resolve the root causes of issues effectively. When employees are effective, empowered problem-solvers, obstacles turn into opportunities. One powerful problem-solving tool is the Fishbone Diagram.

What is a Fishbone Diagram?

A Fishbone Diagram also called an Ishikawa diagram or cause and effect diagram is a visual management tool used to document all the potential causes of a problem to uncover the root causes. The Fishbone Diagram helps users group these causes into categories and provides a structure to display them. When used effectively, it ensures that teams address the actual cause of the problem and don’t just implement a Band-aid solution.

The Fishbone Diagram is called such due to its resemblance to a fish’s skeleton. It was developed by Kaoru Ishikawa and became popular in the 1960s. It is used within many modern quality management methodologies, including Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing. 

When to Use a Fishbone Diagram

Although we refer to the Fishbone Diagram as a structured problem-solving tool, it has other uses. It is helpful in breaking down the contributors to any process or system. Some ways to use it to test a problem statement, conduct root cause analysis, predict the results of a new process, streamline an existing process, improve quality outcomes, and uncover bottlenecks. 

How to Use a Fishbone Diagram

Step 1: Define the Problem

The first step in problem-solving, whether you use the Fishbone or not, is defining the problem correctly. Ideally, the problem statement will include an objective metric that can be used to determine success. For example, a problem statement such as, “The contact center abandon rate is too high,” will not be as helpful as a statement like, “The contact center abandon rate increased by 20% last month.”

In terms of the Diagram, the problem statement represents the “head” of the fish.

Keep in mind:

• If you are using a fishbone diagram to improve a process, instead of the problem, you will define your desired outcome in an objective and achievable way.
• Each of the “bones” in the diagram will represent a category of potential causes, but causes with the most significant impact should be closest to the “head.”

Step 2: Decide on Categories of Causes

The Fishbone tool forces you to think about the potential causes for the problem in several categories represented by the bones. The number will depend on the type and complexity of the problem. You can choose categories that make sense for your project, but in manufacturing, the 6 Ms are often used. They include:

• Man - the people involved in the process
• Methods - the Standard Work by which the process is performed
• Machines - the equipment and tools needed for the process
• Materials - the raw inputs, parts, consumables, and so forth
• Measurements - the data that is used to evaluate process results
• Mother Nature (Environment) - the conditions under which the process is performed.

Another commonly used structure is the McKinsey 7S Framework, which includes Strategy, Structure, Systems, Shared Values, Skills, Style, and Staff. Marketers may go with the 4Ps of Marketing; Product, Place, Price, and Promotion. Non-manufacturing process may include additional categories such as:

In our software call center abandon rate example, we’ll choose the categories of :

• Measurement
• Environment

Step 3: Brainstorm Potential Causes and Identify Roots

Now that the categories are defined, the team can go through each one and try to determine all the individual influences that can affect our results. Look at each type and list everything that falls within it. If a potential cause sounds more like a symptom than the root of the matter, the 5 Whys technique can be used to ensure that bottom-line reasons are included. If a source cause supersedes a potential cause, it can be removed from the diagram, or you can use strikethrough to preserve it while moving on to the fundamental problem. In this example, I’ve struck through “Low morale” as a potential cause because it is most likely a symptom of the lack of training and scheduling problems.

Step 4: Analyze the Diagram and Determine Next Steps

The Fishbone Diagram does not direct you to the solution, but it gives you an idea about where to look. By identifying potential causes in this manner, the team can assess the impact of each and brainstorm possible solutions. As in the case of our example, you’ll probably find more opportunities for improvement than you can tackle at once, but the exercise will put the team in a better position to decide what to do next. The Fishbone Diagram also becomes a good starting point for the next improvement cycle once your most critical root causes are addressed.

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The benefits of digital fishbone diagrams.

Back in the 1960s when the Fishbone Diagram was introduced, teams used paper to visualize their problem statement and possible causes. While that approach is acceptable for small groups working in the same space for a short period, it is not ideal for the way people work today.

That’s why KaiNexus has incorporated Fishbone Diagrams into our continuous improvement software platform. 

• The Fishbone Diagram is created and managed in the same platform you will use for implementing the changes once the analysis is complete.
• Information about your problem, the potential causes, and possible solutions are all collected for future review.
• Remote teams can be as effective as in-person ones.
• Roles and permissions can be applied to determine who can add access and edit Fishbones.
• Fishbone Diagrams can be used for Items, Projects, Improvements, Incidents, Tasks, and Charts. 
• Set up to 6 custom categories per diagram or reuse existing categories
• Highlight or strikethrough items

Using digital Fishbone Diagrams that are integrated with your improvement management software will help your team solve problems faster and accelerate the pace of positive change.

Fishbone Diagram Tips

The Fishbone diagram approach is not complicated, but you can do a few things to get the most out of it. We recommend:

• Use category names that are meaningful for your business. If “Methods” isn’t quite right, maybe “Procedures” is a better fit, for example.
• Don’t overload the categories. Create a new one if necessary. Likewise, don’t overcomplicate it; there’s no need to use six categories if four will do.
• Be careful not to add causes that are actually solutions.
• Prioritize your causes by keeping the most impactful ones closest to the “head”
• Use Fishbone Diagrams along with, not instead of, other problem-solving techniques such as The 5 Whys, A3s, process maps, and control charts.

KaiNexus is delighted to put one more digital improvement tool in the hands of our customers. If you’d like to know more about the impact of KaiNexus, one of our experts is available to help.

Want to learn more about KaiNexus Fishbone Diagrams?

Check out our fishbone video or support.kainexus.com for more information..

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What Is a Fishbone Diagram?

Learn how to get to the root cause of a problem by creating a fishbone diagram, a powerful project management tool.

A fishbone diagram , also referred to as a cause and effect diagram or an Ishikawa diagram, is a helpful tool for identifying the root cause of a problem. It allows you to list all the potential causes that may be contributing to the effect you are currently experiencing. This visual aid takes the shape of a fish skeleton, hence its name. Project managers commonly use them during brainstorming sessions.

To create a fishbone diagram, organize the possible causes on the left side, categorized by causes. These make up the "bones" of the fish. On the right side, place the effect or problem you are investigating—the "head." This structure provides a quick way to visualize the various causes associated with the effect.

What is a fishbone diagram?

A fishbone diagram, also known as a cause-and-effect diagram, is a visual tool used to brainstorm and categorize potential root causes of a problem. By laying out these causes on a fishbone-shaped structure, teams can effectively identify the most likely reasons behind an issue and implement solutions.

When to use a fishbone diagram

When used effectively, a fishbone diagram serves as an easy-to-interpret schema for root cause analysis. Other benefits of using a fishbone diagram include: 

Easy identification of bottlenecks: With a fishbone diagram, you can visually map out interdependencies within your business process, making it easier to spot bottlenecks. When paired with data analysis tools , fishbone diagrams can help you gain deeper insights into operational inefficiencies. 

Address and eliminate recurring issues: Identifying the root cause of a problem allows you to address it at its source, minimizing the likelihood of similar bottlenecks recurring in the future. This, in turn, promotes sustained stability and efficiency in your business operations.

Clear visualization of shifts in business strategy: Applying a fishbone diagram through multiple iterations of a change allows you to visualize and understand the broader implications of that change on interconnected processes. The iterative approach facilitates strategic adjustments to your business plan.

Increased collaboration among teams: Fishbone diagrams promote synergy among team members by offering a medium for brainstorming solutions. The collaborative approach ensures that everyone contributes their insights and perspectives, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of underlying business issues.

Read more: 9 Project Management Trends to Know

How to create a fishbone diagram

Follow these steps to create your own fishbone diagram from the ground up:

1. Provide a problem statement. 

A problem statement is the effect or problem you are investigating and goes in a box with an arrow pointing to it on the right side of a flipchart page, as if forming the head of the fish. Everyone on the team agrees on the definition of the problem.  

2. Define major cause categories. 

Form the skeleton of your fishbone diagram with the major cause categories, which you connect to the backbone. To find these categories, have a brainstorming session with your team. The number of categories you create will vary according to your industry and the problem you’re solving. As an example, if you work in manufacturing, your major cause categories may be staff/people, equipment and machinery, processes and procedures, materials, environmental factors, and measuring procedures.

3. Brainstorm causes. 

Now that you have your major cause categories in place, take time to brainstorm possible causes. You can use the categories as a way of generating ideas or just list as many causes as you can think of as a team.

4. Categorize causes. 

Go through your list of causes and add them to the appropriate category on your diagram. These causes become the ribs on your diagram, joining categories to the backbone. 

5. Discover sub-causes. 

For each cause you identify, go deeper by asking effective questions such as, “Why does this happen?” This causes layers of branches or “bones” on the diagram. 

6. Identify root causes. 

The final step is to identify the root causes of the effect or problem in the problem statement. To do this, look at the causes that appear most often and across more than one category.

4 common types of fishbone diagrams

Fishbone diagrams come in various types, each designed to address a specific challenge. Here are some of the commonly used fishbone diagrams:

1. Simple fishbone diagram: The most frequently used fishbone diagram, the simple fishbone, lets you define and create cause categories unique to your organization or industry. With no predetermined category of causes, the simple fishbone diagram is the most versatile. For instance, when analyzing negative customer feedback, you might categorize causes as product-related and service-related concerns.

2. 4S fishbone diagram: The 4S fishbone diagram, widely used in the service industry, categorizes potential causes into four sections, each starting with the letter ‘S’, namely, surroundings, systems, skills, and suppliers:

Surroundings include the external environment of your business, such as customers.

Systems represent the essential internal processes for customer service or product delivery.

Skills denote competencies necessary for effective job performance, while suppliers involve employees, contractors, and partners collaborating on company projects.

3. 8P fishbone diagram: The 8P fishbone diagram features eight causes sections, each beginning with the letter ‘P’, which are procedures, policies, place, products, people, procedures, price, and promotion:

Procedures encompass what is needed for your company to operate.

Policies detail the rules and regulations set by your company.

Place indicates where your company operates from.

Product denotes what type of products your company will sell.

People refer to those working for you.

Processes describe how tasks are accomplished within your organization.

Price determines how much you should charge for your products and services.

Promotion outlines annual promotional activities.

While its primary use is in the service industry, this variation is adaptable for application in nearly all types of businesses and industries.

4. 6M fishbone diagram: This specific fishbone diagram is predominantly used in manufacturing. It categorizes potential problem causes into six attributes:

Man/manpower , encompassing employers and employees involved in designing and delivering a product

Method , which includes the production process, among other procedures contributing to the final product's delivery

Machine , referring to any systems or tools utilized in manufacturing

Material , denoting the raw materials and components necessary for creating the end product

Measurements , detailing the physical metrics of a product or work unit

Mother nature , which encompasses internal and environmental factors. 

Related terms

Agile project management

Burndown chart

Gantt chart

Project plan

Scope creep

Work breakdown structure

Read more: Project Management Terms: A to Z Glossary

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How to Use Fishbone Diagram for Problem Solving

Fishbone diagram is a problem-solving tool, used in literal terms like a fishbone. It is also known as a cause and effect diagram. The mechanism is to specifically identify the cause and effect of any business or project problem.

A fishbone diagram can help define potential reasons for an issue. This article will dive into understanding the core principles of the fishbone diagram problem solving as a tool.

In 1943 at Tokyo University, Kaoru Ishikawa created the "Fishbone Diagram." Fishbone diagrams can also be called diagrams of "cause and effect." The fishbone diagram problem solving tool is a perfect tool to dig through an issue when we try to assess the root cause and find a solution effectively.

It offers a mechanism for explicitly identifying the "effect" and then brings you to think about the potential triggers, based on typical manufacturing problems. The fishbone diagram problem solving is a basic model that makes it easy to grasp swift and efficient root causes to implement corrective behavior.

It reflects the question or impact at the fish's head or mouth. Possible contributing factors under separate causal groups are identified on the smaller "bones." A fishbone diagram can help define potential reasons for an issue that would otherwise not be discussed by encouraging the team to look through the definitions and discuss alternate reasons.

Source: EdrawMind

1.1 Why Use Fishbone Diagram for Problem Solving

The fishbone diagram makes you consider more when solving specific problems. During a brainstorming activity, various groups inspire thoughts from different areas.

The fishbone diagram brings order to the process of cause and effect . It's easy for participants to understand the main problems or issues and focus on the question across different potential triggers.

The fishbone diagram helps distinguish the causes and reasons for a problem and lets people intuitively figure out the solutions.

1.2 The Usage of Fishbone Diagram

The fishbone diagram problem solving method can be used when trying to fix problems or discover the root cause of an issue or problem, which helps you to see below the surface, and dive deeper into the real problem.

Here are several typical fishbone diagram problem solving applications:

• Manufacturing: ,nbsp;Uncover the root cause of a manufacturing problem by brainstorming and rating the likelihood and effect of all factors affecting the manufacturing cycle;
• Marketing or Product Marketing: ,nbsp;Identify the possible factors that may impede your company's popularity in the marketplace by investigating all the places that affect your product acceptance;
• Service: ,nbsp;Uncover the root cause of a business issue by brainstorming, and rate the probability and effect of all factors impacting the service delivery process.

There are 7 steps lead you to use fishbone diagram for problem solving:

• Explain the agenda behind the diagram

Let your team members know that the diagram can help you see different fields or possible areas that might lead to a solution to your current business problem.

• Draw diagrams

Draw the pattern or shape on your whiteboard, or use a software diagramming tool to ease accessibility. If you need remote attendants to do this exercise, you can quickly build it in EdrawMind and display your computer.

• Determine a simple statement on an issue

Write down statements at the top of your page or above where you will build the diagram., which means everyone has the same idea of the issue you are concerned with.

• Select what categories to use

Categories are discussed in more detail below. For example, you can add Policies, Methods, Personnel, and Software categories.

• Identify potential causes within each category of your problem

Team members may trigger brainstorming or contribute factors that fall into this category. You can either go by category or only come up with ideas and determine which type they fit.

• Go a step deeper to define sub-causes for any cause in the category

If you decide whether something can or will break down to smaller points, build divisions from the critical point.

Team members study the diagram to determine the most relevant focus points. If you are trying to take this a step forward and fix the root cause, it helps define where you're trying to benefit your initiative. You can't solve all the root factors at once, and some can get more significant payoff than others. Check the diagram for an evaluation of where the concentration of the team is best.

• Record results

You bring the work in. Capture, and log your work. You will need to return to it later, so you don't want to miss the importance of the exercise that you got.

There are several tips that should be considered when using the fishbone diagram for solving problems:

• Using the fishbone diagram tool to keep the team focused not on signs, but the problem's causes;
• Make sure you leave ample room in the diagram between the main groups to add minor specific pointers later;
• Try making team members write every cause on sticky notes while you're brainstorming causes, moving around the community asking each person about a particular reason. Continue to go through the loops, have more pointers before all suggestions have been eliminated;
• Encourage each person to join in the brainstorming exercise and voice their own opinions;
• Remember that the strategy of "five-whys" is often used in combination with the fishbone diagram.

While it takes time to create a fishbone diagram , it will help you and your team define the real causes and encourage you to strengthen the process and make permanent improvements.

Regardless, whether you are using the graphical or indented fishbone hierarchy, this process optimization method will significantly help you understand the factors involved in a process. The root causes of the event are the underlying process and system issues, which allowed the contribution. Hence fishbone diagram , the problem-solving tool, is extremely crucial when discussing strategies to deal with problems.

EdrawMind is an easy-to-use, flexible mind mapping tool designed to help you generate modern, fresh visuals and mind maps. By combining the bullet points into a mind map on a project, EdrawMind lets you organize the thoughts or concepts and create essential strategies.

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