Root cause analysis (RCA), rightly applied, can turn problems, defects, or complaints into opportunities for continuous, permanent improvement. This anecdotal article is based on first-hand experience of applying RCA to dozens of business problems. It explains the technique of RCA in an easy-to-understand manner with simple examples. This is followed by easy tests to help you find out if you have really gotten to a root cause and eliminated it. Real examples of business results from RCA are shared. A detailed list of critical success factors, including those from mistakes made, will appear as Part 2 of this article.

A root cause analysis fable

Dev had recently joined a large company in a senior management position. On his first day on the new job, the human resources manager welcomed Dev and showed him his new office. It was a nicely fitted, well-equipped berth with large glass windows. Dev liked the space and felt that it would give him the perfect environment to do his job well.

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