Analysing Problems & Developing Solutions Flashcards

(46 cards)

1
Q

What is Root Cause Analysis (RCA)?

A

A systematic method for identifying the underlying reasons behind an issue

RCA seeks to uncover the core issue to prevent the problem from recurring.

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2
Q

Why is Root Cause Analysis important?

A

It helps uncover what’s really going on, creating sustainable solutions and preventing recurring issues

Addressing only symptoms may provide quick fixes but leaves the root issue unresolved.

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3
Q

What might a recurring issue in a production line indicate?

A

A machine fault, a process gap, or a resource shortage

RCA helps identify the root cause to address the problem at its source.

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4
Q

What is the 5 Whys method?

A

A technique for Root Cause Analysis that involves asking ‘Why?’ repeatedly until reaching the root cause

Developed by Toyota, it helps dig beneath the surface to understand the true cause of a problem.

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5
Q

Fill in the blank: The 5 Whys technique typically involves asking ‘Why?’ ______ times.

A

five

This method helps to systematically explore the cause-and-effect relationships underlying a particular problem.

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6
Q

What is an example of using the 5 Whys?

A

1st Why: Why have sales declined? Answer: Fewer customers are visiting the store.
2nd Why: Why are fewer customers visiting? Answer: Customer satisfaction is down.
3rd Why: Why is customer satisfaction down? Answer: Product variety has decreased.
4th Why: Why has product variety decreased? Answer: Supply chain issues.
5th Why: Why are there supply chain issues? Answer: The main supplier recently changed, leading to delays.

This example illustrates how to reach the root cause of a problem through successive questioning.

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7
Q

What are the key takeaways from Root Cause Analysis?

A
  • RCA is essential for uncovering underlying causes
  • 5 Whys technique helps streamline the process
  • Focus on finding the source, not just symptoms
  • Addressing root causes reduces recurrence

These takeaways emphasize the importance of thorough problem-solving.

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8
Q

What is mind mapping?

A

A technique for visually organising information around a central idea

Mind maps use branches and keywords to show connections between ideas.

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9
Q

List the key benefits of using mind maps to solve problems.

A
  • Simplifies complex problems
  • Reveals connections and patterns
  • Encourages creative thinking

These benefits help in breaking down issues and generating new ideas.

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10
Q

Fill in the blank: Mind mapping helps break down issues into manageable pieces, generates new ideas, and reveals __________ between parts of a problem.

A

relationships

This visual approach clarifies thoughts and keeps focus on the big picture.

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11
Q

What are the must-have components of an effective mind map?

A
  • Central theme
  • Main branches
  • Keywords
  • Visuals (images or colours)

Each part serves a purpose in organising and enhancing understanding.

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12
Q

True or false: The central theme in a mind map represents the main topic or problem being analysed.

A

TRUE

The central theme is crucial for guiding the structure of the mind map.

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13
Q

What is the first step in creating a mind map?

A

Start with a central theme or problem, written or drawn in the middle of the page

This establishes the focus of the mind map.

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14
Q

In the context of mind mapping, what do branches represent?

A

Major components or categories related to the central theme

Branches help to organise the main ideas visually.

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15
Q

Fill in the blank: Use keywords on each branch to summarise the main ideas, keeping the map __________.

A

concise

Keywords help maintain clarity in the mind map.

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16
Q

What is an example of a central theme for a mind map when planning a new product launch?

A

Product Launch

This theme guides the development of branches related to the launch.

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17
Q

List some key areas to add branches for when planning a new product launch.

A
  • Marketing
  • Budgeting
  • Timeline
  • Resources

These areas help structure the planning process.

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18
Q

Mind mapping is especially useful in problem-solving because it helps to __________.

A

clarify thoughts and stay focused on the big picture

This visual approach aids in understanding complex issues.

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19
Q

What should you do after creating your mind map?

A

Look over your results to clarify thoughts and discover new connections or ideas

Reflecting on the mind map enhances understanding.

20
Q

Fill in the blank: Mind mapping is a powerful tool for discovering solutions, encouraging __________ thinking.

A

creative

This approach helps generate new ideas by connecting concepts visually.

21
Q

What enhances clarity and recall in mind maps?

A

Using keywords, images, and colours

These elements make mind maps easier to read and remember.

22
Q

What does SWOT stand for?

A
  • Strengths
  • Weaknesses
  • Opportunities
  • Threats

SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool that evaluates internal and external factors affecting a problem or goal.

23
Q

What is the primary purpose of SWOT analysis?

A

To evaluate both internal and external factors affecting a problem or goal

It provides a clear, comprehensive view of the situation.

24
Q

List three key benefits of using the SWOT approach.

A
  • Provides a detailed view of the situation
  • Recognises what’s within your control
  • Aids in prioritising actions

These benefits enhance decision-making and strategic planning.

25
True or false: **SWOT analysis** only focuses on internal factors.
FALSE ## Footnote SWOT analysis evaluates both internal strengths and weaknesses as well as external opportunities and threats.
26
What should you focus on when working through each quadrant of SWOT?
Specificity ## Footnote Identify clear, actionable items in each category for practical insights.
27
What are **Strengths** in the context of SWOT?
Internal resources and capabilities that provide an advantage ## Footnote Examples include brand reputation and skilled workforce.
28
What are **Weaknesses** in the context of SWOT?
Internal limitations or areas where resources are lacking ## Footnote Examples include limited budget and skill gaps.
29
What are **Opportunities** in the context of SWOT?
External factors that could benefit your goals if leveraged ## Footnote Examples include new market trends and technological advancements.
30
What are **Threats** in the context of SWOT?
External risks or obstacles that could impact your progress ## Footnote Examples include rising competition and regulatory changes.
31
What is the **first step** in conducting a SWOT analysis?
Define the Goal or Problem ## Footnote A well-defined focus keeps the analysis relevant.
32
What is the **second step** in conducting a SWOT analysis?
Identify Factors for Each Quadrant ## Footnote Be specific and consider both internal and external factors.
33
What is the **third step** in conducting a SWOT analysis?
Prioritise Actions Based on Analysis ## Footnote Focus on maximising strengths and opportunities while addressing weaknesses and threats.
34
Fill in the blank: SWOT analysis helps you recognise what’s within your control—your _______ and weaknesses.
strengths ## Footnote This allows you to maximise your resources and address any gaps.
35
What should you do after completing each quadrant of SWOT?
Rank the items by their potential impact ## Footnote This prioritisation guides your focus and ensures effective resource allocation.
36
List two examples of **Strengths** in a SWOT analysis.
* Brand reputation * Unique technology ## Footnote These are internal factors that positively impact your goals.
37
List two examples of **Weaknesses** in a SWOT analysis.
* Limited budget * Outdated systems ## Footnote These are internal limitations that may hinder success.
38
List two examples of **Opportunities** in a SWOT analysis.
* New market trends * Potential partnerships ## Footnote These are external factors that can be leveraged for growth.
39
List two examples of **Threats** in a SWOT analysis.
* Rising competition * Economic challenges ## Footnote These are external risks that could impact progress.
40
What is a key takeaway regarding the use of **SWOT analysis**?
It provides a well-rounded view of internal and external factors impacting a problem or goal ## Footnote This supports strategic decision-making and action planning.
41
What is the purpose of **SWOT Analysis**?
Strategic assessment of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats ## Footnote Ideal for strategic decision-making or problems with internal and external factors.
42
When should you use **Mind Mapping**?
For complex problems with multiple facets needing clarity ## Footnote Helps in visual organisation of ideas.
43
What does **Root Cause Analysis** aim to identify?
Underlying causes ## Footnote Useful for complex problems requiring clarity.
44
True or false: **SWOT Analysis** is best for visualising complex issues.
FALSE ## Footnote SWOT Analysis is ideal for strategic assessments, not visualisation.
45
Fill in the blank: **Mind Mapping** is used for _______.
visual organisation of ideas ## Footnote Effective for complex problems needing clarity.
46
What should you consider when choosing a problem-solving technique?
* The problem's nature * Available information * Resources ## Footnote Aligning the technique to your needs ensures a targeted approach.