In DMAIC, which phase investigates root causes and validates root causes against captured data?

In DMAIC, which phase investigates root causes and validates root causes against captured data?

• A. Define
• B. Measure
• C. Analyze
• D. Improve

Answer: (C)

Root-cause investigation and validation against captured data happens in the Analyze phase. After you’ve defined the problem and collected baseline data in the earlier steps, this phase uses data-driven techniques to uncover which factors truly drive the defect or outcome and to confirm those causes with evidence from the data. You might apply statistical tests, regression or ANOVA to test relationships, Pareto charts or fishbone diagrams to prioritize causes, and validation steps to show that addressing these causes would reduce the problem. The aim is to move from what happened to why it happened, and to prove the link between identified causes and the observed issue so targeted improvements can be designed. The Define and Measure phases focus on stating the problem and collecting data, respectively, while the Improve phase develops and tests solutions, and the Control phase ensures the gains are sustained.

Root-cause investigation and validation against captured data happens in the Analyze phase. After you’ve defined the problem and collected baseline data in the earlier steps, this phase uses data-driven techniques to uncover which factors truly drive the defect or outcome and to confirm those causes with evidence from the data. You might apply statistical tests, regression or ANOVA to test relationships, Pareto charts or fishbone diagrams to prioritize causes, and validation steps to show that addressing these causes would reduce the problem. The aim is to move from what happened to why it happened, and to prove the link between identified causes and the observed issue so targeted improvements can be designed. The Define and Measure phases focus on stating the problem and collecting data, respectively, while the Improve phase develops and tests solutions, and the Control phase ensures the gains are sustained.