Cause and Effects Matrix (#29)

We have split the article about the “Six Sigma Root Cause Analysis” into a four-part series. The Cause and Effect Matrix (C&E Matrix) is part three in this series. The other parts include:

SIPOC(R) Diagram

Input Map (Variables Map)

Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)

Overview

The C&E Matrix is a significant tool in the Six Sigma Practitioner’s toolbelt, as it provides aid to the Deployment team when prioritizing the Process Inputs (X). The C&E Matrix connects Process Steps to Process Inputs (X’s) to Process Outputs (Y’s). The Y’s also relate to Customer Requirements and are arranged by how important they are to the customer. The X’s and Y’s are ranked by their “Interaction Impact.” A C&E Matrix should also conclude which KPIV’s (Key Process Input Variables) need the most attention.

Step 1

In the first step, you should enter the Customer Output Requirements (Y’s); which come from the “O” in the SIPOC. You should have a minimum of three outputs in your SIPOC(R) which means you should also have a minimum of three outputs in your C&E Matrix.

Step 2

Create a 1-10 Ranking to rank how important the Process Outputs are to the Customer. 1 would be the least important and 10 the most important.

Step 3

List each process step. To find these steps, look to the Input Map. Duplicate rows for the same number of Process Inputs for each step. I.E. if a specific step in the process has 3 inputs, it should have three rows for that specific step. 

Step 4

List each process step’s Inputs; which can be found on the Input Map. You shouldn’t leave blank rows to separate the different steps. I.E. if there is a blank row to separate the input “Lighted Area” for the step “Setup” from the input “Sandwich Maker” for the step “Apply PB,” it should be deleted. Every row and column should be filled in.

Step 5

Gather with the Subject Matter Experts (Process owners) to conclude the Correlation Scores. The rating scores are 0, 1, 3, and 9. Having specific scores will eliminate the opportunity for the team to compromise and settle on a median score (like a 5 on a 1-10 rating). Not being specific will ruin the function of a C&E Matrix.

Sort the scores by descending values (highest value to least value). The top 3-5 values will be your KPIV’s that will be used in your Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA).

When you have completed your C&E Matrix, prioritized your Inputs, and identified your KPIV’s, you can move onto the FMEA; which will help you discover how these KPIV’s may fail.

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