Root Cause Analysis and Problem-Solving | VA Innovation Ltd
Root Cause Analysis & Effective Problem Solving
At VA Innovation, we help businesses get to the real reason behind their problems, not just patch over the symptoms. Using Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and proven problem-solving tools, we find what’s really going on, fix it for good, and set your processes up for long-term success.
Whether you’re dealing with
workflow bottlenecks, customer complaints, quality issues, or missed targets, our approach focuses on how and why things went wrong, not on pointing fingers.
What is Root Cause Analysis?
Root Cause Analysis is a methodical, evidence-based way of identifying the underlying issues that cause a problem. Rather than treating the visible “symptoms”, RCA digs deeper to uncover the chain of events and factors that led to the issue in the first place.
In practice, this means:
- Looking beyond the obvious cause
- Using proven tools such as 5 (Five) Whys, Ishikawa (Fishbone) diagrams, and Pareto Analysis
- Understanding both root causes and contributing factors
- Building a plan for corrective actions that actually work long term
Why Root Cause Analysis Matters
When something goes wrong it’s tempting to fix it quickly and move on. The trouble is, if you don’t fix the root cause, the problem comes back, often bigger than before.
At VA Innovation, we use RCA to help you:
- Prevent recurring problems by cutting out the cause, not just the symptom
- Improve quality and efficiency to save time, money, and resources
- Boost customer satisfaction with fewer delays, defects, or complaints
- Support continuous improvement as part of Lean Six Sigma, TQM, and DMAIC frameworks
Our 8-Step Approach to Problem Solving
Our 8-step problem-solving method is inspired by the 8D (Eight Disciplines) approach, a structured process widely used in the Aerospace industry and aligned with quality management standards such as AS9100. The 8D method is known for its rigorous, team-based approach to identifying, containing, and eliminating the root cause of problems, ensuring they don’t recur.
At VA Innovation, we’ve adapted this proven framework to create a more accessible, plain-English version that’s easier for any business to apply, without losing the discipline and effectiveness that make it so powerful.
Step 1 – Identify, Contain & Assemble
We quickly identify the problem, put containment measures in place to limit impact, and bring together the right people to work on the solution.
Step 2 – Break Down the Problem
We analyse the problem in detail, breaking it into manageable parts so nothing is overlooked.
Step 3 – Isolate the Problem and Set a Target
We pinpoint where the problem is happening and define a clear, measurable target for success.
Step 4 – Root Cause Analysis
Using tools like Five Whys, Fishbone diagrams, and Pareto Analysis, we uncover the true cause of the issue.
Step 5 – Develop Countermeasures
We create practical, cost-effective solutions that address the root cause and prevent the problem from recurring.
Step 6 – Implement Countermeasures
We put the solutions into action with a clear plan, timeline, and responsibilitie
Step 7 – Evaluate Results
We review the data to check whether the countermeasures have worked and whether the problem has been fully resolved.
Step 8 – Standardise and Share the Improvement
We lock in the new way of working through updated processes and share the improvement across the business to maximise benefits.
Tools & Techniques We Use
5 (Five) Whys
Keep asking “why” until you reach the true cause. Simple, but surprisingly effective.
Ishikawa (Fishbone) Diagram
Visual mapping of all possible causes, from people and processes to equipment and environment.
Pareto Analysis
Identifying the “vital few” causes that lead to the majority of problems. Also known as the 80/20 rule.
FMEA (Failure Mode & Effects Analysis)
A structured way to predict and prevent potential failures before they occur.
How VA Innovation Can Help Your Business
We specialise in Lean Six Sigma and continuous improvement, so RCA isn’t just a one-off fix. It’s part of a bigger strategy to make your business run better every day.
You get:
- An expert consultant with years of experience in manufacturing, services, and operations
- Practical, actionable solutions that deliver real change
- A clear roadmap for lasting improvement
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Cause Analysis
What is the main goal of Root Cause Analysis?
To identify and eliminate the underlying causes of a problem so it doesn’t happen again.
How is RCA different from regular problem solving?
Regular problem solving often fixes symptoms. RCA digs deeper to address the true source of the issue.
What tools are used in RCA?
Common tools include the Five Whys, Ishikawa diagrams, Pareto Analysis, and FMEA.
When should RCA be used?
Any time a significant issue occurs, such as defects, safety incidents, process failures, or recurring customer complaints.
Can RCA be applied in any industry?
Yes. RCA is used in manufacturing, healthcare, finance, IT, and service industries worldwide.
Take Action – Solve Problems for Good
If your team is tired of putting out fires and wants to actually stop them from starting, Root Cause Analysis is the answer.
Contact VA Innovation today to book a consultation and start fixing problems at the source.
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