Tool details
Fishbone Diagram
A diagram to help you get a clear overview of causes and effects in order to analyse problems and make design decisions.
Tool category:
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When to use
To analyse possible problems that can help make design decisions.
Why you should
This method allows to get a clear overview of causes and effects.
What you get
A diagram showing causes and effects.
Steps to take
Prepare the six arms of the diagram on a whiteboard or use a template from link below.
Define the problem clearly as a short statement in the head of the diagram.
Describe the causes of each bone and write them down at the end of each branch. Use the 4 Ms as categories: Machine, Man, Methods, Materials.
Minor causes are listed around the major causes.
Interpret the diagram once it is finished.
Further reading
If there are branches that are too crowded, split them into different branches.
References & Links
