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TOOL 05
Root Cause Analysis A method of mapping the root cause of an issue through underlying structures and mental models. Tried & tested
Complexity
LEAD ROLE: SYSTEMS THINKER
60–90 mins
Purpose of this tool: This tool enables you to tackle an issue systemically, by uncovering its underlying structures and mental models. The iceberg model helps you do this by starting at the surface level of a challenge and progressing towards its root causes – from the ‘patterns’ that sit behind the ‘events’ to the ‘structures’ and ‘mental models’ at the root of the issue. Why this tool is important: Tackling the root cause of an issue is much more likely to result in a systemic shift. If you don’t consider an issue’s underlying structures and mental models, solutions will likely tackle the surface of a challenge and result in short-term fixes, rather than long-term solutions. What you need to begin: A complex issue that you have perceived and are hoping to tackle.
Design Council Systemic Design Toolkit
30