What is a Fishbone Diagram (aka Cause & Effect Diagram)?
A Fishbone Diagram is a structured brainstorming tool designed to assist improvement teams in coming up with potential root causes for an undesirable effect. Its name derives from its resemblance to the bones of a fish. It is also known as a Cause and Effect Diagram or an Ishikawa Diagram after its creator.
Causes are often grouped into major categories, which are classically defined as the 6 Ms (or the 6 Ps): Man/Mind Power (People), Method (Process), Machines (Program), Materials (Product), Measurements (Policy), and Milieu/Mother Nature (Place).
To learn how to use the Fishbone Diagram and how to apply Lean or Six Sigma, check out our free Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Training, or Green Belt Training.
