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Which tool is used to prioritize and identify the causes of problems in a process?
Flowchart
Fishbone diagram
Histogram
Control chart
The correct answer is: Fishbone diagram
The fishbone diagram, also known as the Ishikawa diagram or cause-and-effect diagram, is a valuable tool used in Six Sigma for identifying and prioritizing the causes of problems within a process. This diagram visually organizes potential causes into categories, allowing teams to systematically explore different aspects of a problem. Using the fishbone diagram, participants can brainstorm and categorize causes related to the primary problem, facilitating a deeper understanding of the issue's roots. This structured approach helps teams focus on the most critical factors that contribute to process defects or inefficiencies. In contrast, a flowchart maps out the steps of a process but does not specifically target problem identification. A histogram provides a graphical representation of data distribution and variability, while a control chart monitors process stability over time but does not directly serve to analyze root causes. Thus, the fishbone diagram stands out as the most effective tool for prioritizing and identifying causes within a process, making it essential for problem-solving in Six Sigma initiatives.