ABSTRACT
This chapter explores in depth the question of “What is Root Cause Analysis or RCA?”This is a seemingly easy question to answer, but it is more complex than we think.There is a stigma associated with the generic term “Root Cause Analysis” (RCA).Because it is ill-defined in the market place, it will mean different things to different people.Is “RCA” the same as brainstorming, the fiveWhys, a fishbone diagram, a causal factor tree?Is the goal of an RCA to find the broken component and replace it?Does it seek out people to blame for violating some type of standard? Does it explore organizational system deficiencies that influence decision-makers?Can RCA be proactive as well as reactive?Can RCA be standardized?
This chapter will discuss what is an RCA, what is NOT an RCA, and what is its scope.
