Tension Root Cause Fishbone

What participants gain

• Participants will be able to identify the root causes of team tensions.
• Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the systemic factors contributing to team conflict.
• Participants will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Materials needed

• Whiteboard or flip chart
• Markers
• Sticky notes (optional)
• Pre-drawn Fishbone Diagram template (optional)
• Timer

How to run Tension Root Cause Fishbone, step by step

1. Introduce the activity and its purpose (5 min).
2. Explain the structure of the Fishbone Diagram and the major categories (e.g., People, Methods, Machines, Materials, Measurements, Environment) (5 min).
3. Write the problem statement (Team Tensions) at the head of the fishbone (2 min).
4. Invite participants to brainstorm potential causes and categorize them into the major categories (10 min).
5. Use the "5 Whys" technique to drill down to the root causes of the issues (5 min).
6. Summarize the key root causes identified during the activity (3 min).
7. Thank participants for their honest feedback and participation (5 min).
8. Encourage participants to focus on identifying systemic issues rather than individual blame (2 min).
9. Prepare the fishbone diagram on the whiteboard, labeling the main categories (People, Process, Technology, Environment, etc.) (3 min).
10. Guide the team to brainstorm potential causes for the team tensions and add them to the corresponding categories on the diagram (7 min).

Facilitator tips

• Clearly explain the structure of the Fishbone Diagram and the major categories.
• Encourage participants to brainstorm potential causes without judgment.
• Use the "5 Whys" technique to drill down to the root causes of the issues.
• Focus on identifying systemic issues rather than individual blame.
• Summarize the key root causes identified during the activity.

Common challenges

• Participants may struggle to identify the root causes of the issues. Use the "5 Whys" technique to help them drill down.
• Participants may focus on individual blame rather than systemic issues. Redirect the discussion to focus on broader organizational factors.
• The diagram may become too complex and overwhelming. Simplify the diagram by focusing on the most significant root causes.
• Participants may feel defensive when discussing potential causes. Emphasize the importance of creating a safe and non-judgmental environment.

Running it virtually

Use a virtual whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural to collaboratively create the Fishbone Diagram. Assign categories to different participants to facilitate parallel brainstorming.

Expected results

A clear visual representation of the root causes of team tensions. Identification of key areas for intervention and improvement.

Build a session around Tension Root Cause Fishbone

METODIC drops Tension Root Cause Fishbone into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

Try METODIC free