Effective Root Cause/Corrective Action

Learning Objectives

The best approach to corrective action involves a thorough examination of possible causes, followed by careful analysis to isolate the root cause(s). Some of the most effective and practical tools for generating possible causes will be discussed (brainstorming, 5-Why, Is/Is Not, 8D, and others). Application examples of each of these tools will be presented and explained. Techniques for identifying options for corrective action and dealing with constraints will be presented. The session will include a discussion of the characteristics of effective systems that support continual improvement, as opposed to ineffective systems that consume resources and provide little or no return.

Course Outline

The major topics will include:

• Definition and explanation of corrections, corrective and preventive action concepts
• Presentation, explanation, and discussion of effective and practical analysis tools for generating possible causes (brainstorming, 5-Why, Is/Is Not, 8D, and other tools)
  • Small group exercise to perform Brainstorming activity
  • Small group exercises to create Affinity and Ishikawa diagrams
  • Small group utilization of RC/CA tools to address product, process or internal audit nonconformance
• Discussion of risk management and its relationship with effective RC/CA – primarily assignment of appropriate resources for problem resolution
• Explanation of methods for evaluating and recording the effectiveness of implemented corrective actions
  • Small group corrective action exercise

Benefits of Attending

Attendees will obtain a working knowledge of several common root cause/corrective action tools that they will be able to apply at their companies to help drive permanent improvements. The techniques presented will help the attendees to understand the differences between meaningful solutions and superficial band-aids.

About the Trainer

Craig J. Wilson; Managing Director, Quality & Process Improvement Consulting Services Mr. Wilson has more than twenty years working as a supervisor, manager and advisor in quality assurance and production. Since joining Catalyst Connection in February 1993, he has helped companies in the aerospace, automotive, chemical, defense, food processing and medical industries to develop and implement effective quality management systems. He holds a BS degree in Engineering from The Pennsylvania State University and an MBA from West Virginia University. Mr. Wilson is an AS9100 Aerospace Experience Auditor with Probitas and a QMS Lead Auditor with Exemplar Global. He is a senior member in the American Society for Quality, an ASQ Certified Manager of Quality /Organizational Excellence, Certified Quality Engineer, and Certified Quality Auditor. Additionally, Mr. Wilson as an IAQG certified Instructor for the AS9100 Aerospace Auditor Transition Training.