The eBook “8 Key Elements to a Sustainable RCA Program” offers up some possible reasons and potential solutions to this dilemma.

First we’ll start by describing the elements of an RCA program:

1. An involved sponsor, or program champion
2. A resourcing plan complete with program champion and trained investigators
3. Establish clear trigger mechanisms to clarify exactly what needs to be investigated
4. Establish clear protocols for the collection and preservation of information
5. Establish a standard reporting process to assist with further analysis and cost savings
6. Establish an ironclad tracking system that forces resolution of the action items through escalated emails or other methods
7. Review the investigations for common causes and possible improvement opportunities and missed opportunities
8. Provide tracking of the value of the RCA program

In many companies RCA is most likely approached as something that can be done in everyone’s spare time. Provide some training and send them out to save money.  In many cases this is done without the facility’s upper management knowledge or full support.  This inevitably leaves it vulnerable to the “I’ll get around to it” mentality and at the mercy of the people that probably already have too much to do.

Two things are needed.

First, a program such as defined above to move the facility to a new culture or “way of thinking”.  Second, an audit type of program to ensure the program is achieving its intended ROI. 

The eBook will also touch on second order change. Basically second order change is change that is self-sustaining. Ask yourself - will your program sustain itself it the program champion is promoted, retires, or leaves the company?  If not, then you will never achieve your intended results and return for your investment and you haven’t achieved second order change.

Getting the most out of your training dollars is important and many companies are willing to spend the money, but do they track the value of their investment?  It’s necessary to put together a training plan along with resource allocation, sponsorship, expected ROI and tracking metrics to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.  Download our free eBook detailing the eight key elements listed above - a proposed methodology for ensuring the value of your RCA program is captured.

Free eBook Download: “8 Key Elements to a Sustainable RCA Program”

Melissa Cameron

Commercial Manager (Europe)

Phone:  +44 7702 216302

Email: mcameron@armsreliability.com

www.apollorootcause.com  ,  www.armsreliability.com