Apollo Method
Apollo Root Cause Analysis (ARCA) is a simple, powerful, structured, problem-solving methodology that complies with industry standards for Root Cause Analysis. It works on all problems where humans are involved. We call this type of problem an event-based problem because it is always centered around some kind of human event – like an accident or failure, or even a success. And in every human endeavor, a critical element of our success is the ability to solve event type problems. The Apollo Method is more than a process to be used investigating events, it is a way of thinking that will change the way you view and interact with the world around you. Once learned, you will become an outstanding performer in everything that you do.
Unlike conventional problem solving methods, the Apollo Method is not a stepwise process that can be reduced to a procedure – it is an iterative process that first identifies what you don’t know and then guides you with simple rules and processes to what you need to know to identify effective solutions. The Apollo Method requires that you define the problem and then create a Realitychart which consists of evidence-based causes and their causal relationships. After creating the Realitychart, challenge the causes and offer solutions. The best solutions must prevent recurrence, be within your control, and meet your goals and objectives. While the Apollo Method is indeed this simple, it is often difficult for most first time users because it does not follow conventional thinking about problem solving. To make this transition easier, we created RealityCharting®. Only a Realitychart provides the legitimate causal structure of an event. All other methods are structured linearly and/or categorically and as such are incapable of representing the reality of the event. RealityCharting® is the tool used to analyze, document, communicate, and solve a problem. It is the core of the Apollo Method because it provides the guidance and structure required to produce effective solutions every time. RealityCharting® provides a simple graphical representation of the event being analyzed such that it can easily be shared with others. This shared reality is represented in a Realitychart which allows all stakeholders to participate in identifying effective solutions. Because the solutions are created by all stakeholders, there is no need to convince others how good the solutions are and implementation is all that is left to do. Because we typically use ineffective problem solving strategies (see Apollo Root Cause Analysis, Chapter One) it is important to understand that problem solving is not about telling stories, placing blame, or finding root causes, it is about finding effective solutions. And, effective solutions can only be had if we fully understand all the causes of the event and how they interrelate. If you are evaluating the various Root Cause Analysis methodologies you can find a comprehensive comparison of all method types in Comparison of Common Root Cause Analysis Tools and Methods.
Suggested Reading
Learn more about the unique process that is changing the way the world thinks about event-type problem solving. Download Chapter 1 of this engaging book.