Root Cause Analysis is the Critical Deep-Dive Method for Solving Systemic Problems
Janga Bussaja writes about how this method can help best address societal ills
Communication Intelligence, the Newsletter: Recently, I saw an interesting LinkedIn post that talked about root cause analysis. It mentioned three (really six) questions to thoughtfully consider with committed effort and answer:
1. What is the root of what you are trying to solve? 2. How does this solution resolve the root? Is that really the best solution for that problem? 3. Is the solution you’re implementing a long term or short term fix? How long will this solution hold? Is it just a band-aid?
I was interested in talking about this concept and one response I received led to a conversation and the following column, courtesy of Janga Bussaja:
In a world rife with complex challenges, the quest for effective solutions often takes us down various paths. However, the principle of root cause analysis (RCA), a method I honed during my tenure at Siemens Energy, emerges as a beacon of clarity and effectiveness, especially in high-stakes corporate environments.
The emphasis on root cause analysis resonates deeply with my own experiences and beliefs. When I worked for Siemens Energy, whenever issues arouse in the field, standard operating procedure was to ask "why?" — 138 times — until we discovered the root of the issue so that we could correct the action or behavior and document the lesson learned.
Understanding the root of a problem is not just a methodological preference but a necessity for sustainable solutions.
Asking "What is the root of what you are trying to solve?" is a testament to a genuine commitment to problem-solving. It reflects an understanding that superficial solutions, while convenient, are ultimately ineffective in the long term.
It's a pertinent question necessary to identify the core fundamental problem.
Asking "What is the root of what you are trying to solve?" is all about taking a complete, all-encompassing view of the problem. It's like an open invitation to really get into the details and understand everything that's contributing to the issue.
This question pushes us to do more than just look at the obvious signs; it's about diving deep to find the hidden, deeper causes. Whether it's big-picture issues, historical factors or small details we might have missed, it's about uncovering everything at the heart of the problem
Addressing problems at their root is often challenging and uncomfortable, especially in complex societal issues like systemic racism. It requires confronting entrenched systems and beliefs, which is far more demanding than implementing superficial legislative changes. However, it's this depth of action that leads to true, lasting solutions.
I once made a YouTube video highlighting this very question. Imagine calling a tree-or-landscaping company, requesting the complete upheaval and removal of a tree and the company shows up, trims the leaves, cuts the branches and leaves the stump in the yard. The problem remains. They didn't put in the very hard work of digging deep and cutting the roots embedded in the soil.
This mirrors the "race problem.” The country was planted on two fundamental evils, of which the same Constitution still governs so there was bound to be problems. I am encouraged by outlets like yours who encourage these tough conversations.
Questions like "How does this solution resolve the root? Is that really the best solution for that problem?" are essential for steering problem-solving efforts towards meaningful outcomes. They compel us to evaluate our solutions critically, ensuring that they are not just effective but also address the core of the issue.
When we ask, "How does this solution resolve the root?” we are delving beyond the visible effects of a problem, seeking to uncover and understand the underlying causes.
This question forces us to think deeper, to analyze the fundamental factors contributing to the issue at hand. It's an inquiry that shifts our focus from temporary fixes to long-term remedies, ensuring that the solutions we devise are not just band-aids but actual cures.
Janga Bussaja is a former engineer, founder at Planetary Chess, a philosopher and social entrepreneur with a passion for creating systemic change. With his background in corporate America and a keen understanding of societal structures, he advocates for deep-rooted solutions to complex problems.
He is the author of “Introduction to Planetary Chess: Counter- Racist Strategy” and “Disputation on the Power & Efficacy of Antiracism.”
Publisher’s Note: Planetary Chess was a vivid term that intrigued me and about which I asked Janga Bussaja. Here is what he expressed to me:
“Thank you for your interest. The term, originally coined by Dr. Francis Cress Welsing, draws a powerful parallel between the strategic depth of chess and the complexities of systemic racism.
“In this analogy, understanding the ‘racism game’ through thorough root cause analysis is key to devising strategies that can effectively counter and eventually dismantle these systemic issues.
“Planetary Chess is a method to comprehend and address the complex aspects of society that contribute to racial inequality. By analyzing these aspects and their fundamental causes, we can create solutions that tackle the main issues, not just the surface-level symptoms.”
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Wisdom that is worth sharing. I love this article, well done.