Fishbone Diagram

Fishbone Diagram

 Step 1:  Clue the Class In

·         Introduce the tool.
·         Let the kids know why you are doing this and explain the value of this process.
·         Write the purpose, desired outcomes, and process on the blackboard or on a
      prepared flip chart.
·         Post for the class to see.

Step 2:  Set-Up

·         Post large sheet of butcher paper or tape together pieces of flip chart paper. 
      Allow ample space.
·         Draw the fishbone chart.

Step 3: Identify Topic
·         Determine the topic, or the effect, that you are analyzing.  Write the effect in
      the “head” of the fish.

Step 4:  Determine Categories

·         Determine the major cause categories..
·         Write the names of the categories on the major bones of the fish.
      Hint: The general types of categories usually include such items as people,
     materials, methods, machinery and environment.

Step 5:  Identify Causes

·         Have the kids brainstorm the causes.
·         As a cause is identified, determine which category or “bone” it belongs on.
·         Record and appropriate bone.

 

Resource: Future Force;  A Teacher's Handbook For Using TQM in the Classroom

Elaine McClanahan & Carolyn Wicks