What is the primary purpose of Root Cause Analysis (RCA)?

What is the primary purpose of Root Cause Analysis (RCA)?

• A. To plan new projects
• B. To identify root causes of events after they occur
• C. To allocate funding
• D. To train staff

Answer: (B)

Root Cause Analysis aims to uncover the underlying factors that led to an event after it happens. It’s a structured investigation that looks beyond the surface issue to identify systemic weaknesses, process failures, or human factors that contributed. The goal is to prevent recurrence by implementing corrective actions and changes to policies, procedures, or systems. Tools like the 5 Whys or fishbone diagrams help trace the sequence of events to the root cause. It isn’t about planning new projects, allocating funds, or training staff in general; those activities focus on future initiatives or resources rather than investigating a specific incident after it occurred.

Root Cause Analysis aims to uncover the underlying factors that led to an event after it happens. It’s a structured investigation that looks beyond the surface issue to identify systemic weaknesses, process failures, or human factors that contributed. The goal is to prevent recurrence by implementing corrective actions and changes to policies, procedures, or systems. Tools like the 5 Whys or fishbone diagrams help trace the sequence of events to the root cause. It isn’t about planning new projects, allocating funds, or training staff in general; those activities focus on future initiatives or resources rather than investigating a specific incident after it occurred.