What is Root Cause Analysis?
Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a structured problem-solving methodology used to identify the true underlying causes of an issue, rather than just treating the symptoms. It helps teams understand why a problem occurred in order to prevent it from happening again. RCA techniques are widely used in quality improvement, operations, safety investigations, and process optimization.
Who should take this course?
This course is ideal for professionals in quality, operations, engineering, and process improvement roles. It’s also a great fit for team leads, frontline supervisors, or anyone responsible for investigating incidents, addressing recurring issues, or driving performance improvements. Whether you're new to RCA or need a formal process for your current role, this course provides the structure and tools you need.
What will I learn in this course?
You’ll learn how to:
- Define and clarify problems using objective data
- Use structured tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams (Ishikawa), and Cause Mapping
- Facilitate RCA sessions with cross-functional teams
- Gather and analyze evidence
- Identify the root cause(s) of problems
- Develop corrective and preventive actions that are effective and sustainable
- Communicate and document findings clearly
Is any prior experience needed?
No prior experience with root cause analysis tools is required. The course is designed for beginners and intermediate learners. However, a general understanding of your organization's workflows or familiarity with basic problem-solving principles will help you get the most out of the experience.
What kinds of problems can this course help me solve?
This course will help you address:
- Quality defects or process errors
- Safety incidents or near misses
- Customer complaints or recurring service failures
- Equipment breakdowns or maintenance issues
- Delays or bottlenecks in workflows
Any repeatable, high-impact problem in your organization can benefit from structured RCA.
Why is root cause analysis important?
RCA is essential for organizations that want to move beyond short-term fixes and build long-term resilience. By addressing the root causes of recurring issues, you reduce downtime, improve quality, cut costs, and create a culture of continuous improvement.