Framework
Root Cause

Current Reality Tree

Logical tree of undesirable effects

Best for
finding the few core problems
Time
1–2 hr
Difficulty
Advanced
Example

Mapping undesirable effects on a stalled customer-success team

Current reality tree
  1. UDE 1 — renewals are slipping
  2. UDE 2 — CSMs work nights to make QBRs
  3. UDE 3 — onboarding takes 2× the promised time
  4. Common cause — no shared playbook; everything is bespoke
  5. Root — leadership rewards heroics over standardization
  6. Action — define the playbook, reward adherence, retire heroics

Related frameworks

Root Cause

Fishbone Diagram

Causes grouped under 6 Ms

Root Cause

5 Whys

Ask why five times

Root Cause

A3 Problem Solving

One-page Toyota problem report

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