Root Cause Analysis: Improving Performance for Bottom-Line Results, Fourth Edition

There is no easy answer to the question, “What is RCA?” Some will give a general idea of what Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is designed to accomplish, while others will advocate a specific approach. In this third edition of the best-selling Root Cause Analysis: Improving Performance for Bottom-Line Results, acclaimed experts Robert and Kenneth Latino offer a broad look at the various types of approaches to RCA, comparing their pros and cons while supplying practical tools for implementing or improving current RCA initiatives.

This edition expands the scope of RCA, taking a holistic approach that includes recent perspectives, opportunity analysis, and RCA’s fit with current initiatives such as Total Quality Management (TQM) and Six Sigma. In addition to a broader perspective, the book presents updated and expanded material including: a chapter devoted to problem-solving/brainstorming; methodology versus software; using the PROACT^® approach complimented by the PROACT^® Enterprise Version 3.0 software; discussion of the various conflicting definitions of common terms used in RCA; and a focus on measuring ROI.

Emphasizing the organizational support necessary for successful RCA efforts, Root Cause Analysis: Improving Performance for Bottom-Line Results, Third Edition demystifies the concepts involved in effective RCA and presents hands-on guidance for program enactment.

Unfortunately, hero-based maintenance, noble as it is, is not the most effective business strategy and points to a reactive corporate culture. ... The problem solving methods discussed in this book cover much more than how to determine the obvious cause of the problem. This book discusses how to set up a blame free methodology that encourages deeper problem discovery that results in permanent solutions. It stresses that Root Cause Analysis requires a dedicated team coupled with management support and explains ways to communicate the impact so a business case can be made. Best of all it teaches how to create an entire company of proactive problem solvers that will move your operation to the next level of profitability and effectiveness. ... I am confident that this book will have a profound effect on your problem solving ability.
-From the Foreword by Terrence O'Hanlon, CMRP, Publisher, Reliabilityweb.com