Fishbone Diagram for Excel, Google Sheets

Identify a problem's root causes efficiently with a fishbone diagram. This visualization template categorizes potential causes, making it a valuable resource for root cause analysis.

Template Highlights

• Efficiently identify the root causes of a problem and facilitate effective problem-solving with the fishbone diagram template.
• The free template is available in Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel.
• This editable fishbone template can be used to structure brainstorming sessions.
• To get started, download the template above and gather your team to find the problem's root cause.
• Note the problem statement on the right side marked as "Effect."
• Write the main categories related to the problem under the "Value" shape.
• Note down all contributing causes under "Cause" in each category.
• Find all the root causes of the problems, analyze the diagram with your team, and decide on the next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a fishbone diagram?

A fishbone diagram, also known as a cause-and-effect diagram or an Ishikawa diagram, is a visual tool used to identify and analyze the potential causes of a problem or an outcome. It helps to explore the various factors contributing to the problem or result.

The fishbone diagram consists of three key components:

• The Problem: This is the issue or effect you’re analyzing, written at the head of the fish.
• The Spine: This is the long, horizontal line connecting to the head, serving as the timeline or sequence of the problem.
• The Bones: These are the categories of potential causes. They branch off the spine, leading towards the head. These categories include methods, machines (equipment), people (manpower), materials, measurement, and environment.

When to use the fishbone diagram template

You can use the fishbone diagram template when you need to analyze and categorize potential causes, understand the underlying root causes, and develop effective solutions for a problem or issue. It is beneficial in situations involving problem-solving, quality improvement, process analysis, team collaboration, and proactive planning.

What are the benefits of using a fishbone diagram?

The benefits of using a fishbone diagram include visualizing all potential causes in a structured manner, promoting team collaboration and brainstorming, uncovering hidden or less-obvious issues, identifying relationships between causes and effects, and prioritizing areas for improvement.

Is this template free?

Yes, this template is completely free.

Is this template editable?

Yes, this template is editable. You can make changes based on your needs.

Related Business Templates

• Management

  Offer Letter Template

  Put your best foot forward and win over your top candidates.

• Business Plans

  Risk Assessment Template

  Ensure your business is protected and avoid unnecessary risks with our free template!

• Management

  Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

  Describe the how, what, and where of your organizational tasks to employees with this free SOP templ...

• Agendas & Schedules

  Time Blocking

  Easily plan your day for maximum focus and minimum distractions with this free time blocking templat...

• Management

  Gap Analysis

  Conduct thorough assessments of your current state vs. goals with this free gap analysis template.

• Dashboards & Reports

  Root Cause Analysis

  Use this free root cause analysis template to identify the source of business issues and create a pl...

• Business Plans

  Business Case

  Make a case for an upcoming project or investment with the help of this free business case template.

• Project Management

  Process Map

  Streamline your workflow, enhance efficiency, and foster continuous improvement in your organization...

• Management

  The 5 Whys

  Download the free 5 whys template to identify the root cause of business challenges and develop prac...

• Management

  Succession Plan

  Enhance your organization’s leadership continuity, improve workforce readiness, and ensure smooth tr...

See All Business Templates