© 2004 Cayman Business
Systems
Rev:
Pre-G3 - Rendered Thursday,
February 12, 2004
Slide 49
Elsmar.com --- The
Cove!
8-Disciplines Problem Solving
Problem vs. Symptom
•At this point it is
important to distinguish between a problem and a symptom. A
symptom, for example, could be a split in a seam.
•Generally,
there are a series of problems associated with a process that causes a symptom (in this case the
seam split). A symptom often illustrates a ‘gap’ between the desired quality (of
the
seam) and its actual quality. The seam split because of a problem in the
process or in the design.
•Every
company has its own internal system for appraising symptoms and problems. Sometimes a symptom occurs
where 1
person can evaluate the problem and address it. Other times the symptom is
significant and requires a team to investigate and remove the cause.