Root Cause Analysis Video
The video below describes the importance of completing 5 Whys and a Fishbone Diagram (*in the video, the fishbone diagram is called a 6M*).
(Asset Insights, 2025)
5 Whys
The 5 Whys is a root cause analysis tool used in Improvement Science to explore why a problem occurs. By asking “Why?” several times, educators can identify underlying causes and develop instructional changes that address the source of the problem rather than its symptoms (Crow et al., 2019). Use this guide and template to complete your 5 Whys on your chosen challenge.
(State of Michigan, 2020)
Fishbone Diagram
A Fishbone Diagram is a root cause analysis tool used in Improvement Science to organize and explore the possible causes of a problem. Each major ‘bone’ of the diagram represents a force thought to cause the problem (Bryk et al., 2017). By examining contributing factors across multiple categories, educators can identify opportunities for instructional improvement and develop changes that address the underlying causes rather than the symptoms.
(UHMBT, 2024)
Below is a template to use to create your fishbone diagram.
Driver Diagram
A driver diagram is a visual tool used in improvement science to identify the factors that influence a desired outcome and the interventions needed to achieve meaningful change. It guides decision-making throughout the improvement process while providing a practical framework that educators can adapt to implement and sustain evidence-based improvements in their own settings (Bryk et al., 2017; Crow et al., 2019).
(QualityStream NorthQI, 2025)
The forms below provide a sequential outline of creating an in-depth driver diagram. It begins with the AIM statement and primary drivers. Then, the secondary drivers are added to support the primary drivers. Lastly, the interventions/change ideas will be described.
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Open in new tab (Roberts, 2025b)
PDSA Cycle
A Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle is an iterative process used to test and refine changes on a small scale before broader implementation. During each cycle, a change is planned and implemented, data are collected to evaluate its impact, and findings are analyzed to determine whether the change led to improvement. Based on the results, the intervention may be adopted, adapted, or abandoned, with lessons learned informing the next cycle of improvement. This continuous process supports evidence-informed decision-making and promotes sustainable, context-specific improvements.
(Iwancio, 2019)
The forms below provide a template to complete one PDSA Cycle.
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(Roberts, 2025c)