Root Cause Analysis: Finding the “Why” Behind the Data
In data analysis, spotting trends is easy, but finding the reasons behind them is where real value lies. That’s where Root Cause Analysis (RCA) comes in.
RCA helps you move from “What went wrong?” to “Why did it go wrong?” by digging deeper into data patterns, processes, and context.
How to apply it with data:
1.Identify the problem: Define what changed or went wrong (e.g., sales drop, churn spike).
2.Collect and analyse data: Pull relevant metrics and look for patterns or anomalies.
3.Ask ‘why’ repeatedly: Use techniques like the 5 Whys or Fishbone Diagram to trace causes.
4.Validate with evidence: Confirm the root cause using data, not assumptions.
5.Recommend actions: Turn findings into insights that drive improvement.
Root Cause Analysis turns data into decisions it’s how analysts go beyond dashboards to deliver business impact.