Using the Fishbone Diagram for Quality Control

Defining and Isolating Problems

The purpose of the “fishbone diagram” (developed by Japanese quality expert Dr. Kaoru Ishikawa) is to understand processes and the outcomes of those processes. Usually, it is used to isolate weaknesses and problems within processes, but the method can also be utilized to initially design processes. It divides different process aspects into various classifications and examines how they interrelate with one another.

Developing the diagram

The fishbone diagram assumes that all processes are known. Diagramming starts with a well‐focused challenge, problem, or goal; this is listed at the right and a line is drawn to the left with an arrow pointing to the final...

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