View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Operations Root Cause Tree Analysis |  Operations Runbook |  Operations Fishbone Diagram |  Operations 5 Whys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For a problem with several suspected causes, the method builds a causal structure instead of a mere list. It makes visible how causes connect and where the strongest points of leverage lie. | For recurring operational tasks or incidents, the method keeps solid action logic ready. It reduces uncertainty when time pressure, role changes, or rare situations demand fast access. | When a problem has several possible contributing factors, the method sorts causes by cause areas. It prevents an initial hunch from blocking the view of other plausible drivers. | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 1-3 h | 20-60 min | 30-60 min | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-8 | 1-4 | 2-8 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | Cause Tree, Evidence Notes, Countermeasures | Runbook, Checklist, Escalation Path | Fishbone Diagram, Cause Categories, Investigation Backlog | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | Root causeTreeIncidentQuality | OperationsReliabilityDocumentation | Root causeQualityOperations | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |