How to identify the critical 'X's when there is no continuous data/count available for the causes listed in fishbone diagram?

Hello Puneet

 

In absence of data for the potential causes listed in fishbone, following approaches could be taken

 

1. Prepare a data collection plan and start collecting the data (ideally this is done in Measure phase of a project, however we can still do it in Analyze phase). The project timelines might get impacted slightly, but nevertheless we will be able to work with data to identify the critical Xs.

2. Use the Control Impact Matrix to identify the critical Xs. It is subjective in nature, however because it is a group activity the believed that individual biases will be addressed in a group decision. You can read more about it at the below link

https://www.benchmarksixsigma.com/forum/topic/36262-control-impact-matrix/

 

Hope this helps!

Hi Puneet, 

I wish I had more context on what you are trying to solve but I agree with Mayank on data collection planning and the matrix.

In addition, I thought about structuring an FMEA exercise to get RPNs to prioritize, or you could take an SME group through an NGT session. 

 

 

Hello Aarti,

 

Certainly! The pre AHT of a process is 150 hours/month, post Macro implementation it's 1 hour/month.

 

NGT tool I have used and I am able to rate the highest contributing causes as per skilled SME's rating. However, process SME's feedback was confined to process only rather than thinking out of the box.