8D Root Cause Analysis
and Problem Solving Method

Local Not Global

The standard 8D is similar to the Global 8D method used for system-level defects. However, the standard 8D works at the operational and process level.

8D digs deep into the process and operation to find the root cause (basic reason) for a defect or problem. A little time and team effort goes into the 8D method for problem solving.

Beyond The Immediate Cause

The 8D method looks beyond the immediate cause to assess why a problem work its way into our operation. The root cause is what we must find and correct. This should be a "must learn" technique for those companies experiencing recurring customer complaints and returns.

When we don't work the problem to its root cause we are almost certain to experience it again. Many times only the direct cause is addressed. This will correct the problem at that point in time. However, because the underlying root cause is not found and corrected we continue to see the same type of problems recurring.

Information And Data Intensive

The 8D method requires more time to complete than the 5 Why problem solving method.

The 8D method requires the collection and analysis of quite a bit of data and information. Be sure to allow additional time for investigation and collection of data.

It's unfortunate that many companies that use the 8D program and, also require their suppliers to use it, have such a poor understanding of its true intent and methods. It is not uncommon to see a customer request that their supplier complete and submit an 8D report within 48 hours after notification.

This is certainly possible if the supplier has immediate access to all the data that is needed. And, an experienced team of problem solvers that know all the quality tools needed and are competent in their use. And, they stop working on all their other duties and devote all their time to this one thing. That's just not possible.

Unfortunately in many situations this not the situation. The problem solving is handled by one person instead of a team and usually ends up addressing only the immediate or contributing causes. The time constraint imposed makes it nearly impossible to do a thorough job of problem investigation and solution development.

The result is an onslaught of problems that continue day in and day out. The people spend too much time fighting fires because the root causes are not found and corrected. Ask yourself how many times during the week do you think "I wonder what will go wrong today." If your answer is not "none", then you are in a fire fighting mode.

There will always be problems to solve because many times they are thrust upon us by external forces we cannot control. But, when we continually and repeatedly keep solving self-generated problems we need a better problem solving method - 8D.

QMS Standards

This 8D method complies with the corrective action requirements of ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949, AS9100 and many other quality standards.

Course Content

This is an interactive class with workshops and case studies from real life.

You can have this class presented at your business for as little a $54.00 per person. Travel expenses not included.

Class is one day.

The Course Includes:

·        INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

·        USING THE TEAM APPROACH

·        DESCRIBING THE PROBLEM 

·        IMPLEMENTING CONTAINMENT ACTION

·        DEFINING ROOT CAUSE

·        VERIFYING CORRECTIVE ACTION

·        IMPLEMENTING PERMANENT ACTIONS

·        PREVENTING RECURRENCE

·        WORKSHOPS

·        CEU and RU credits are awarded

Additional Resources