Why tree analysis

When you find a problem, this is called the sentinel event on the fault tree diagram, and it is listed at the top see diagram above right. Then, you list in a row below the sentinel event the issues that could have occurred to lead to the error. This first row is typically a few to several discrete elements that could have led to the problem occurring. Beneath that element, you will begin to list all of the causative or correlative elements that could have led to it.

Next, move to your next element in row 1 and do the same thing. Typically, I would do this in a left-to-right fashion and then progress to the next row down, as shown here:. How to populate a fault tree: Start at the sentinel event top , then work down one row to each sub-element. Then begin with Element 1a and ask why and how that element 1a could have occurred. This will give you your second-row elements. Then move to Element 1b and do the same thing, and so on.

But, expanding beyond the 5 Whys, this tool allows you to see where bifurcations or trifurcations, etc. The following component from a previous article shows the linkage between the 5 Whys and the fault tree:.

Note: The 5 Whys representation is shown on the left, and the fault tree analog is on the right. The fault tree, however, is ideal for this purpose. And because of this, fault tree analysis is much better for mapping reality. These are all elements that matter to a proper investigation. Then we begin from our properly-specified event statement to ask why this event was allowed to happen.

We use cookies to offer you a better experience. By visiting our website, you agree to the use of cookies as described in our Cookie Policy. Features Visual Designer. Flipbook Maker New. Chart Maker. Form Builder. Background Remover. Diagram Creator. Photo Book Maker New. Collage Maker. Spreadsheet Editor. Data Widgets. Photos Effects. Visual Paradigm Desktop. Photo Books. What is A Root Cause? Once all the problems are in place, these should be connected with cause-effect arrows, clearly showing key links.

Once completed, the problem tree represents a summary picture of the existing negative situation. Problem trees do more than just identify the root causes of the problem. They provide a visual breakdown of problems into their symptoms as well as their causes, and furthermore create a visual output that can be understood by anyone.

This may also be an important step when attempting to build support for any interventions, new techniques or improved technologies. Since the negative situations of the problem tree have to be reformulated into positive situations that are desirable and realistically achievable, it is of primal importance that all stakeholders are involved in the discussions giving their feedback.

Appropriate consultation will help to consider priorities, assess how realistic the achievements of some objectives might be and identify additional means that might be required to achieve the desired ends.

It might also be necessary to reformulate some of the problems, add new problems or delete problems which might not be relevant or suitable. Furthermore, an objective tree might show many objectives that cannot all be reached at once, for which choices and priorities will have to be made see also preference ranking.

Once completed, the objective tree provides a summary picture of the desired future situation, including the indicate means by which ends can be achieved. After having decided about the desired future situation, possible interventions have to be selected in order to determine the scope of the project, i.

This analytical stage is the most difficult and challenging, as it involves synthesising a significant amount of information and making a complex judgement about the best implementation strategy to pursue. In practice a balance has to be found to deal with the different stakeholders interests , political demands and practical constraints. However, the potential merits and difficulties associated with addressing problems in different ways have to be fully scrutinised before any detailed design work is undertaken.

Should we select just a few? Which interventions are more likely to bring about the desired results? What would be more beneficial for the target groups? Are these interventions sustainable in a long-term? Are the financial means available? Do we have the technical capacity to implement the actions? These and other questions, including environmental , social and economic issues as well as policies and the legal framework , will help to rule-out those strategies which cannot be covered in this project, and those which are realistic and will offer the most benefit for those facing the problems.

Read our factsheet on project proposal writing to get you started on the path to success! The problem tree analysis is essential to many forms of project planning in order to improve the sanitation and water system and is often used by development agencies. A properly planned sanitation and water project is addressing the real needs of the beneficiaries and is therefore based upon a correct and complete analysis of the existing situation.

Applying the problem tree method supports the identification of the main problems along with their causes and effects. This method therefore helps experts and project planners to formulate clear and manageable objectives how to improve and make your sanitation and water system more sustainable.

Objective Tree : Following the problem tree analysis, it is possible to rephrase each of the problems into positive desirable outcomes — as if the problem had already been treated, the problem can be turned into an objectives tree. In this way, root causes and consequences are turned into root solutions, and key project or influencing entry points are quickly established.

A Force Field analysis Tool 16 could be a useful next step. Can be done after Appreciative story telling Tool 6. The opportunity tree is adapted from Participatory Action Research, Theory and methods for engaged inquiry J. Chevalier and D. Buckles Tags: Shared Language.

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