27 of February, 2025

Business efficiency is key to profitability. For decades, numerous authors have pondered how to make it evident and increase it. As a result, methodologies such as the Ishikawa diagram have been proposed, which we will talk about in this article.

This system is characterized by combining a visual and accessible proposal with detailed information. Certainly, an element from which we can learn a lot to incorporate it into the business.

Remember the importance of organizing data flow, as it is essential for People Analytics processes.

What is an Ishikawa diagram?

The Ishikawa diagram is a graphical system used for sorting information. It is based on the premise that each cause has an effect.

That is, each person is responsible for their actions and each change produces an impact. These three keys explain its extensive versatility and its connection to the business environment.

Starting from a visual proposal, it carries out an approach based on a skeleton. In fact, it is also known as a “fishbone diagram”. Interesting, isn’t it?

The shape is due to its intention, which is to identify the reason behind a problem. However, when we refer to a dilemma, we could be talking about a situation or a non-negative circumstance.

Parts of an Ishikawa diagram

When its author designed the Ishikawa diagram in the 1940s, he did so thinking of something as simple as an arrow.

With this idea, he developed three main parts, each of which must fulfill a function:

Head: Presents the problem and constitutes the fundamental section. It is the element that will be analyzed through its development to form the complete body.
Primary spikes: The possible causes of the setback or, in other words, their explanations. Since they are hypotheses, as many as necessary can be formulated.
Minor spikes: They are responses to the causes proposed in the primary spikes. They aim to give greater solidity to the previous proposals so that they remain linked to the head.

As you can see, this Ishikawa diagram follows the problem-solution or cause-effect model (the latter, in reverse). For this reason, all the factors required in any of the parts can be added.

That is, it is possible to propose a head with numerous situations, on which different spikes will depend.

The Ishikawa diagram in the business environment

Taking this graphic proposal to the professional environment is not always easy. Can we solve problems using this Ishikawa system? The truth is that we can, and innovations are coming on strong.

A report by Deloitte consultancy proves it. More than 85% of the companies surveyed that opted for new solutions in 2020 affirmed they made the right choice.

1. Contributes to analyzing personnel

Sometimes, a staff member can be problematic for achieving objectives. We are not referring to their conduct, but to the inadequacy of their productivity.

With an Ishikawa diagram, you can show him the possible causes and work with him on his improvement. The key lies in external support as a basis for enhancing its focus.

2. Improves the work environment

The work atmosphere can be affected in times of crisis. It happened during the pandemic when companies had to adapt to teleworking.

Through the Ishikawa technique, the causes of a complex situation can be identified. This way, the HR department will be able to face them correctly.

3. Key for employees’ motivation

Motivation is one of the current corporate scenario’s pending challenges. An Ishikawa diagram can contribute to resolving the problems that prevent it from staying present.

You have to think about what is happening, formulate hypotheses and implement solutions. As a result, both performance and productivity can be increased.

4. Optimizes the decision-making process

Decision-making is a process that belongs to the HR department and managers. There are times when it is not done correctly, so external help is crucial.

We are referring, of course, to graphic mechanisms. Do you usually use them in your company? Keep reading their advantages so you know where to start.

5. Identifies potential business opportunities

When new paths are opened, business opportunities can grow almost exponentially. However, you have to know how to choose the right ones and those that will be profitable in the long run.

An Ishikawa diagram is very useful, as it exposes the problem from beginning to end. In other words, it allows creating a strategy by analyzing all possible situations.

6. Minimizes the risk of making investments with Ishikawa

This point is very related to the previous one, but it has an important nuance. Unprofitable investments can take the form of a product, a collaborating company, or a service.

When a change of this type is proposed, it must be placed at the head of the Ishikawa diagram. Each spike can pose a consequence and address possible solutions.

7. Increases external competitiveness

According to a study by the INE, almost 50% of the population bought online last year. The expansion of ecommerce has generated a strong demand for quality products.

To achieve this, the company must work to surpass itself. This is a dilemma that, again, can be analyzed visually and placed at the head.

8. Provides a source of accurate and unbiased feedback

Obtaining feedback is one of the main ways to seek help. Managers and HR managers should take it as the basis for decision-making, along with good internal communication.

However, the gathered information must be objective, specific, and useful. With a diagram, the situation can be studied in the most formal and solid way possible.

As you have seen, an Ishikawa diagram is a source of opportunities for a business. It is a system that, logically, requires a professional and business-directed approach.

From Sesame HR, you can manage personnel through our HR software. Stay in our resource section or subscribe to the newsletter to learn more!

Customer-oriented, both internally and externally, specializing in the definition and implementation of HR policies, as well as talent management, recruitment, and retention. Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, organization, and team coordination skills. Over 12 years of experience in Human Resources.

Do you want to rate our article?

Average rating:

5 stars (1 votes)

★★★★★

iriserrador

HR Content Specialist

How the Ishikawa diagram helps a company