Six Sigma root cause analysis template

Focus on recurring issues that impact key metrics like quality, cost, or delivery. Look for problems that persist despite attempted solutions—these typically have hidden root causes. The template helps you prioritize based on frequency and severity, ensuring you invest analysis time on issues with the highest potential impact on your organization’s performance.

This template provides statistical validation of root causes rather than relying on opinions. While brainstorming might generate ideas, this structured approach ensures you collect relevant data, test hypotheses, and verify causes with evidence. It prevents the common pitfall of implementing solutions based on assumptions that don’t address the actual problem source.

You’ve found the true root cause when: 1) it explains all observed data, 2) removing it prevents the problem from recurring, and 3) statistical tests validate its significance. The template’s verification section helps confirm your corrective actions address the actual cause by establishing clear success criteria and measurement methods.

Choose tests based on your data type and question. For comparing means, use t-tests or ANOVA; for relationships between variables, use regression or correlation analysis; for categorical data, use chi-square tests. The template provides space to document both your test selection rationale and results, ensuring your conclusions are statistically sound.