ur developing concept map will allow you to view concepts that may or may not fit with your theoretical framework. Your capstone instructors, and mentor can help you evaluate the feasibility of the theory, plan, and approach to your capstone project (Grant & Osonloo, 2016). (Refer to Appendix 7.B: Sample Concept Map: Person-Environment-Occupation Model).
Problem Tree Analysis provides a template for mapping causes and effects to better understand the chain of connected circumstances that led to a current issue, problem, or need. Using the tree as a metaphor, you separate the causes (roots) from the effects (branches) of a central issue (trunk). Problem Tree Analysis provides a structured way for you to identify concerns, discern causes from symptoms, and potentially frame problem statements in a clear manner. Problem Tree Analysis can help you:
- untangle complex problems
- reveal various causes and effects
- build a shared understanding
- provide a direction for problem-solving
Problem Tree Analysis, which is also known as a Situational analysis or Problem analysis is central in many forms of project and program planning (Luma Institute, 2021). (Refer to Table 7.3: Advantages of Problem Tree Analysis).
Table 7.3: Advantages of Problem Tree Analysis
Source: Planning tools: Problem tree analysis. ODI. (2014, June 27). Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://odi.org/en/publications/planning-tools-problem-tree-analysis/ (Refer to Appendix 7.C: Sample Problem Tree Analysis: Pediatric HIV)
Root Cause Analysis
Root cause analysis (RCA) is the process of discovering the root causes of problems to identify appropriate solutions. RCA assumes that it is much more effective to systematically prevent and solve for underlying issues rather than just treating unplanned symptoms and putting out fires. RCA can be performed with a collection of principles, techniques, and methodologies that can all be leveraged to identify the root cause of an event or trend. Looking beyond superficial cause and effect, RCA can show where processes or systems failed or caused an issue, problem, or need in the first place. Identifying the root causes of a problem, issue, or need helps in developing more effective strategies to overcome it (Guavera, 2022). There are three basic types of root causes that can have a potential impact on a problem, need, issue, or event:
- Physical causes
- Human causes
- Organizational causes
The first goal of RCA is to discover the root cause of a problem, issue, need, or event. The second goal is to fully understand how to fix, compensate, or to learn from any underlying issues within the root cause. The third goal is to apply what we learn from this analysis to systematically prevent future issues or to repeat successes (Root cause analysis explained: Definition, examples, and methods. Tableau, n.d.).
There are several core principles that guide effective root cause analysis, some of which may be readily apparent while others may not (Refer to Table 7.4: Core Principles of Root Causes Analysis).
Table 7.4: Core Principles of Root Cause Analysis
Source: Root cause analysis explained: Definition, examples, and methods. Tableau. (n.d.). Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://www.tableau.com/learn/articles/root-cause-analysis
It should be noted that RCA is not a one-size fits all methodology. Rather, there are many tools, processes, and techniques that can be used in conducting in RCAs. Regardless of the technique chosen, the process for Root Cause Analysis remains the same (Refer to Table 7.5: Root Cause Analysis Process).
It should be noted that RCA is not a one-size fits all methodology. Rather, there are many tools, processes, and techniques that can be used in conducting in RCAs. Regardless of the technique chosen, the process for Root Cause Analysis remains the same (Refer to Table 7.5: Root Cause Analysis Process)
Table 7.5: Root Cause Analysis Process
|Realize the problem
|Determine possible causal factors
|Identify the root cause
|Recommend and implement solutions
Source: Guevara, P. (2022, August 12). Root cau