What tool is commonly used by analysts to investigate the causes of a problem?

The fishbone diagram, also known as the Ishikawa or cause-and-effect diagram, is a widely recognized tool used by analysts to systematically identify and analyze the potential causes of a problem. This diagram visually organizes potential causes into categories, allowing analysts to explore and understand the various factors contributing to an issue at hand. By facilitating brainstorming and encouraging a structured approach to problem-solving, the fishbone diagram helps teams focus on every possible cause that could be influencing the outcome, thus aiding in pinpointing the root issue.

In this context, analysts can effectively map out complex relationships between causes and effects, making it easier to identify the underlying problems that need to be addressed. The graphical representation assists in uncovering both direct and indirect causes, fostering collaborative discussions for solution development.

While root cause analysis is a broader methodology that encompasses various tools, including the fishbone diagram, it is not exclusively focused on visual representation or categorization. Other options like flowcharts may aid in process mapping and understanding workflows, but they do not specifically address the causal relationships in the manner that the fishbone diagram does.