7.5 The Eight Disciplines (8D)

An effective troubleshooting and problem-solving method that can be used to determine the root cause of failure is the 8D approach.

• Use the team approach: people with process and product knowledge and the required skills to solve the problem.
• Describe the problem: specify the customer problem in quantifiable terms – who-what-when-where-why-how-how many (5W2H)
• Implement temporary corrective actions: define and implement CONTAINMENT actions to isolate the effect of the problem until corrective action can be taken.
• Determine and verify root causes: IDENTIFY ALL potential causes that could explain why the problem occurred. Isolate and verify the root cause by testing each against the problem.
• Choose and verify corrective actions: through test programs, quantitatively confirm that the selected corrective actions will resolve the problem and will not cause new problems.
• Implement corrective actions: define and implement the best permanent corrective actions. Choose ongoing controls to ensure that the root cause is eliminated.
• Prevent recurrence: modify management systems, operating systems, practices and procedures to prevent recurrence of the problem.
• Congratulate the team: recognise the collective efforts of the team.