Tree Diagram

A tree diagram – sometimes called a Fault Tree Diagram – is used in root cause analysis. It describes levels or categories of causes for problems or failures.  A tree diagram seeks to identify the underlying causes or “root causes” for any problem. Because they are the most fundamental, they are said to be at the root of the problem. Once root causes are identified, they can be systematically eliminated. Developing the tree diagram helps one move their thinking from generalities to specifics.

The tree diagram is similar to Cause and Effect Diagram, also known as Fishbone or Ishikawa diagram.