Strategic Planning with the Root Cause Analysis Framework

Root Cause Analysis is a technique that enables better strategic planning in business.

Root cause analysis is a problem-solving method based on the belief that problems are best solved by attempting to correct or eliminate root causes, as opposed to merely addressing the immediately obvious symptoms. By directing corrective measures at root causes, it is hoped that the likelihood of problem recurrence will be minimized.

General Principles

• Aiming performance improvement measures at root causes is more effective than merely treating the symptoms of a problem.
• There is usually more than one potential root cause for any given problem.
• To be effective, RCA must be performed systematically, with conclusions and causes backed up by documented evidence.
• To be effective the analysis must establish all known causal relationships between the root cause(s) and the defined problem.
• Root cause analysis transforms an old culture that reacts to problems to a new culture that solves problems before they escalate, creating a variability reduction and risk avoidance mindset.

Process:

• Define the problem.
• Gather data/evidence.
• Identify the causal relationships associated with the problem.
• Identify the causes that, if changed, will prevent recurrence.
• Determine which causes can be solved with available resources and do not cause other problems.
• Implement the recommendations.
• Observe the recommended solutions to ensure effectiveness.

Other Strategic Planning Frameworks

• 4P's Marketing Mix
• Seven S (7S) Management Framework
• AIDA - Attention, Interest, Desire, Action - Buying Process
• Ansoff's Matrix - Product-Market Growth Matrix - Expansion Strategy
• BCG Growth-Share Matrix
• Bass Diffusion Model - Product Adoption and Innovation
• Blue Ocean Strategy
• Choice Model for Decision-Making Behavior
• Competitive Advantage
• Core Competence - Collective Learning in the Organization
• Cost-Benefit Analysis
• Delta Model
• ERG (Existence, Relatedness, Growth) Theory of Motivation
• Experience Curve
• Framing Effect on Psychology and Marketing
• GE (McKinsey) Matrix
• Growth Phases
• Predicting Industry Evolution and Change
• OODA Loop - Observe, Orient, Decide, Act
• PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) - The Deming Cycle
• PEST Analysis - Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal Factors
• Perceptual Mapping - Brand Marketing
• Porter's Five Forces
• Product and Marketing Positioning
• Product Lifecycle (Industry Lifecycle)
• Root Cause Analysis
• SWOT Analysis - Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunties, Threats
• Technology Adoption Curve
• Value Chain
• Balanced Scorecard
• Benchmarking
• Customer Segmentation
• Pricing Strategy & Price Optimization
• Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)