Florida International University The Fishbone Diagram Management Analysis Discussion

I’m studying for my Management class and need an explanation.

The Fishbone Diagram

4. On a construction site, the job is clearly behind schedule. Discussion with the workers points to problems with having materials ready when needed. Some of the materials in the supply trailer seem to be of the wrong sizes – such as piping and fittings. It takes a long time to get the materials each day, and workers are held back.

Draw a Cause and Effect (Fishbone) diagram to try to find the possible causes for this situation. Start with an observed effect “Material supply problems”

Show possible causes on 5 bones of the chart. These should be labeled: Materials,

Workers, Methods, Equipment, and Environment. Show at least 3 possible causes on each bone.

NOTE – use action words or phrases. Do not use numbers.

(i) Brainstorm on the problem, then list the ideas. Work from the list to sketch the

basic structure of the chart, then add the ideas to the chart as possible causes.

(ii) Write a short summary to suggest specific ideas on how the findings from the

chart may be used to improve the materials problem.

6. Factual Review Question:

Explain the purpose of a scatter diagram. Give an example of how one could be used in a construction project.

7. Five-S application:

In your group, discuss a construction project one of you may be involved in, or may have observed at some time.

Explain briefly how you think Five-S could be used to improve the project, and what

results could be expected. Try to be specific about any steps needed.