Root Cause Analysis Quiz

What is the first step in the Root Cause Analysis process?

• Collecting data

• Defining the problem

• Identifying the cause

• Implementing a solution

Answer explanation

The first step in Root Cause Analysis is defining the problem. This step ensures that the team understands the issue clearly before moving on to data collection and identifying causes.

Why is it important to define the problem before applying Root Cause Analysis?

• To find quick solutions

• To ensure that all relevant data is collected

• To set a focus for the investigation

• To eliminate any irrelevant causes

Answer explanation

Defining the problem is crucial as it sets a focus for the investigation. This clarity helps ensure that the Root Cause Analysis is directed towards the right issues, making the process more effective and efficient.

Which of the following could be a defined problem in a fashion company related to production?

• The price of raw materials is too high

• Poor stitching on jackets causing high return rates

• Employee turnover rates

• Lack of customer reviews

Answer explanation

The defined problem in a fashion company related to production is 'Poor stitching on jackets causing high return rates' as it directly impacts product quality and customer satisfaction, leading to increased returns.

What type of data is important to collect when investigating a stitching problem in jackets?

• Return data

• Raw material costs

• Social media feedback

• Customer demographics

Answer explanation

Return data is crucial for identifying stitching problems in jackets, as it provides insights into the frequency and nature of defects reported by customers, helping to pinpoint specific issues that need addressing.

Which of these is NOT relevant data for Root Cause Analysis in a stitching problem?

• Return rates

• Machine maintenance logs

• Employee training records

• Employee salaries

Answer explanation

Employee salaries are not relevant to Root Cause Analysis for stitching problems, as they do not directly impact the quality or efficiency of the stitching process, unlike return rates, machine logs, and training records.

What method is commonly used to identify the root cause of an issue in Root Cause Analysis?

• SWOT analysis

• 5 Whys

• Brainstorming

• Benchmarking

Answer explanation

The 5 Whys method is a key technique in Root Cause Analysis, where you repeatedly ask 'why' to drill down to the underlying cause of an issue, making it more effective than SWOT analysis, brainstorming, or benchmarking.

What is the key idea behind the 5 Whys technique?

• Identifying multiple causes at once

• Asking 'Why' repeatedly to uncover the root cause

• Prioritizing solutions over causes

• Collecting data through surveys

Answer explanation

The 5 Whys technique involves asking 'Why' multiple times to dig deeper into a problem, ultimately revealing the root cause. This method focuses on understanding the underlying issue rather than just addressing symptoms.

Which could be a root cause for poor stitching in jackets?

• Bad weather conditions

• Faulty or poorly maintained sewing machines

• Inaccurate sales data

• High customer demand

Answer explanation

Faulty or poorly maintained sewing machines can lead to inconsistent stitching quality in jackets, making this the root cause of poor stitching. Other options do not directly affect the stitching process.

What is the purpose of collecting data in Root Cause Analysis?

• To guess the solution

• To support the cause without verification

• To understand the root cause of the problem

• To track employee performance

Answer explanation

The purpose of collecting data in Root Cause Analysis is to understand the root cause of the problem. This ensures that solutions are based on verified information rather than guesses or unsupported claims.

In investigating poor stitching, which of the following would be considered a process-related cause?

• Worn-out sewing machines

• Faulty fabric

• Low employee motivation

• Incorrect pricing strategy

Answer explanation

Worn-out sewing machines are a process-related cause of poor stitching, as they directly affect the quality of the stitching process. In contrast, faulty fabric, low employee motivation, and incorrect pricing strategy are not process-related.