In three steps, here is how to make problem solving visual
- Choose your problem solving model(s). Above all, select the ones that are most successful to your team. See further examples below…
- Gain inspiration from our problem solving board gallery. In other words, see successful ways for how to make problem solving visual
- Reach out and take the first step to make your own problem solving board. In short, start here
Effective problem solving models to consider
The PDCA cycle
This lean strategy that delivers change through four steps. These are PLAN, DO, CHECK, ACT. Firstly, come up with a plan to solve the problem. Secondly, do it. In other words, implement your plan. Next, check results. That is to say, analyse how the plan has works. Finally, act on those findings. So, learn from your results. Furthermore, if necessary, work your way round the PDCA cycle again until the successful solution is found.
Root Cause Analysis
Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a structured problem solving method which aims to identify and solve the related issues of a particular problem, and to provide potential solutions. It is usually made up of five steps: gather data, produce a problem statement, analyse cause and effect, provide solutions and report on process. So, the RCA process assumes that events and systems are interrelated so that an action in one area will have an effect on another area, and so on. Consequently, this sometimes reveals more than one root cause.
Fishbone Diagram
One popular way to tackle RCA is to approach the problem visually with the use a Fishbone diagram, as shown here. In addition, relevant categories to the workplace are used to brainstorm potential issues, in order to consider underlying causes. It can be used to eliminate areas and more closely identify the likely root cause. Furthermore, these diagrams are also called cause and effect diagrams.
The 5 Whys
Often compared to the ‘toddler approach’, the 5 Whys approach to RCA is a common technique. Every answer to a ‘Why’ question is followed up by an additional ‘Why’? Moreover, this method prevents assumptions and can produce detailed responses which serve the Root Cause Analysis process. In some cases, it may take more or fewer Whys to identify the root cause of the problem. So, the 4 Whys method helps to understand the chain of a problem and is regarded as a highly effective evaluation tool. Read more on 5 Why visual management boards.
A3 problem solving board
In addition, RCA can be included as part of the A3 problem solving method, a highly visual lean management tool. Combine 5 whys, root cause analysis, an action plan with status tracking and reporting data all in one place. The method aims to solve issues with increased collaboration, simple structures and enhanced communication. Read more about A3 problem solving.
Further ideas for how to make problem solving visual
Please view this problem solving board gallery
Make your PDCA cycle visual, at a glance
PDCA Kanban board
DMAIC is a central problem solving method that supports Continuous Improvement
A3 problem solving board for visual team collaboration for problem solving
Root Cause Analysis is fundamental to problem solving
Further examples
Practical problem solving
Short Interval Control
5 Whys Root Cause Analysis
Fishbone practical problem solving
Fishbone practical problem solving
Problem Solving with fishbone
Root Cause Analysis
Concerns board problem solving
PDCA Kanban problem solving
Fishbone root cause analysis
Problem Solving magnetic tickets
Use the 5 Whys method
Make problem solving easy
Root Cause Analysis board
Use a Fishbone diagram
Colour coded problem solving
Colour coded problem solving
The Continuous Improvement Process
A3 practical problem solving
Define the issue with questions
Problem solving fishbone board
Colour coded problem solving
Fishbone diagram
Fishbone and 5 Whys
A3 problem solving board
Fishbone Root Cause Analysis
Tickets for problem solving
Add a Fishbone diagram
5M fishbone diagram
Problem solving tracker board
5 Whys root cause method
Solve problems visually
Continuous Improvement Process Board
A3 problem solving
A3 Summary problem solving
Root Cause Analysis
Analyse cause and effect
6M fishbone board
Tara board
5 Why problem solving method
Use colour and graphics on your board
Practical Problem Solving overlay
Investigate the 'Why'
Dry wipe fishbone diagram
Use DMAIC to problem solve
Brainstorm through your problems
Food production problem solving
PFU board with status circles
Show your processes
Multilingual PFU board
PFU status indicators
Practical Problem Solving board
Practical Problem Solving board
Countermeasures and analysis
Custom designed PFU tickets
Durable ticket holders
Problem Follow Up ticket holders
Our Approach
We create visual management boards everyday. As a result we have plenty of experience. We work for organisations in food production, the power industry, national rail, pharmaceuticals, education, healthcare, packaging and distribution.
Our team works with a simple idea or sketch and creates a professionally designed layout. This is then turned into a highly functional visual management board.
We offer customised options because we want to create the perfect board for you. So, here are a few examples. We can add magnetic areas or a dry-wipe finish (for use with whiteboard pens). Furthermore, you can choose Red/Green sliders or R.A.G. (Red, Amber, Green) status dials so you can quickly and visually update your board. These are just a few examples of the ways in which our boards can be tailored to meet your needs. You may also be interested in whiteboard overlays that can be used on top of an existing magnetic board.
