A root cause analysis is performed when a problem or accident has occurred and its cause needs to be uncovered. Root cause analysis documentation lists the steps taken to identify the problem and determine the cause, and also describes the approach that will be used to address the problem and prevent against it going forward. Diagrams illustrating cause-and-effect relationships may also be included as part of the analysis.
We’ve created root cause analysis templates you can use to complete your own investigations. Whether you need root cause analysis Excel templates, a root cause analysis template for Word, or a PDF template, we have one that’s right for your organization.
Download Root Cause Analysis Template Below
This root cause analysis report template allows for a detailed examination of the event. Use it to record information on the incident’s background and contributing factors, actions taken to reduce future risk, findings related to the identified root cause, as well as other notable findings that aren’t directly related to the problem. It also allows you to record a description of the event itself, the timeline, the investigative team, and the methods used.
Download Simple Root Cause Analysis Template Below
This is a more stripped-down version of the root cause analysis template above. Use this template to examine simpler issues that don’t require detailed analysis. It allows you to record a short explanation of the issue or problem, list potential root causes and possible solutions, and report whether or not those solutions were successful.
Download Six Sigma DMAIC Methodology Root Cause Analysis Template Below
Six Sigma DMAIC is a methodology used to reduce errors and improve business processes. It prescribes its own approach to analyzing and investigating root causes. The “DMAIC” acronym refers to the steps involved in this process, which are similar to the steps described in the introduction:
This root cause analysis template walks you through each of the steps above, and allows you to enter information about the root cause action plan, resolution, and investigative team. What’s more, this root cause template includes diagrams that can be used to visualize how different contributing factors (e.g., people, processes, and equipment) relate to one another, as well as to the problem itself.
Download ‘5 Whys’ Root Cause Analysis Template Below
A 5 Why root cause analysis template is used to conduct a particular type of root cause investigation. When examining a problem or accident, “why” questions frequently arise (e.g., Why didn’t we address this issue sooner?). The “5 Why” process involves asking a series of these questions—first asking why the incident occurred, then asking why those sub-causes occurred, until the root cause of the issue is eventually uncovered. This template provides a framework for asking “why” questions and determining the root cause. You can also note corrective actions that will be taken to prevent the problem from recurring.
Download Cause Mapping Template Below
This cause mapping template combines elements of the root cause analysis template, the Six Sigma DMAIC template, and the 5 Whys root cause analysis template. It includes a detailed problem outline, a timeline, a “why” question analysis, diagrams to help illustrate the process, sections for proposing and evaluating possible solutions, and a section for creating an action plan.
Download Healthcare Cause Mapping Template Below
This type of root cause template is formatted the same way as the generic cause mapping template, but is specifically tailored for healthcare organizations. Like the above template, it offers a “why” analysis and supplementary diagrams in addition to the standard elements. However, it also helps you examine how patient safety and services goals have been impacted by your analysis of the problem.
When filling out your own template, use this completed report as an example. This sample root cause analysis examines an explosion at Acme Chemical Company. It describes the incident background, contributing factors, who was involved, what root cause was identified, the risk reduction actions taken, prevention strategies, and incidental findings. Refer to this sample if you need guidance when completing your own root cause analysis.
A root cause analysis template, also known as a root cause corrective action template, typically contains the following information:
Event description: The problem or accident being investigated is described in as much detail as possible. This includes the date and time of the event, what happened, who uncovered the problem, and who was impacted by the problem (as well as how they were affected).
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