What is the primary purpose of root cause analysis?

The primary purpose of root cause analysis is to find the fundamental causes of problems. This technique is critical within the Six Sigma framework as it allows teams to delve deeper than surface-level symptoms to identify the underlying issues that lead to defects or inefficiencies in a process. By understanding the root cause, organizations can implement effective solutions that address the problem at its source, leading to lasting improvements and prevention of recurrence.

In contrast, identifying all possible solutions is a broader strategic approach that may come after determining the root cause. Measuring product quality focuses more on the results and performance of a product rather than understanding the issues that affect its quality. Analyzing customer feedback is concerned with gathering insights from customers, which is valuable but does not directly target the core issues behind process failures or defects. Root cause analysis provides a structured method to ensure that corrective actions are focused on the actual reasons behind problems, leading to more sustainable outcomes.