Ishikawa diagram

Ishikawa diagram is a tool that helps to identify, classify and show the possible causes of a particular problem, quality characteristic, aspect or hazard. The diagram graphically shows the relationship between a particular consequence and all the factors that affect it. This diagram was invented by Kaoro Ishikawa and is often used due to the appearance of the fishbone diagram.

Ishikawa diagram - goal

The goal of the Isikawa method is primarily to systematize knowledge. Through the research of influencing factors on a consequence, knowledge, about it is crystallized and collected, and that facilitates the analysis. The Ishikawa diagram is also known as the cause-and-effect diagram. Ishikawa diagram is a tool used to consider and show the relationship between a given consequence and its potential causes. Several potential causes are grouped into main categories (usually according to the 7M principle) and subcategories, so that their visual representation resembles a fish bone. Two types of Ishikawa methods can be identified: the Basic Method and the Comparative Method.

Ishikawa diagram –7M

Factors considered according to the 7M principle are:

Man, Machine, Material, Method, Management, Measure Milieu

Ishikawa - cause and effect diagram

Ishikawa diagram - identifying the cause

Small groups of causes of the highest level (3 to 5) are identified, which often have the greatest impact on the consequence and require appropriate measures, control efforts, etc., in order to improve quality, reduce or eliminate environmental impact or reduce or eliminate health hazards and employee safety. It can be concluded that the method for constructing a cause-and-effect diagram consists of considering all possible causes and organizing them into categories and subcategories.

Ishikawa diagram - cause and effect

The end.