Root Cause Analysis Template

Quickly Identify and Eliminate Issues at the Source

Use Creately’s root cause analysis online to visually break down problems, uncover hidden causes, and develop effective solutions.

Create a Root Cause Analysis

Save time with ready-made RCA templates for any scenario
Collaborate with teams in real time or asynchronously
Turn complex problems into actionable insights using intuitive diagrams

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Unlock Faster Problem Solving with RCA Templates

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Visual Tools to Pinpoint the Real Problem

Snapshot of a root cause analysis template with Creately's Shape Info feature

Creately’s root cause analysis diagram tools include pre-built shapes, connectors, and commonly used RCA formats such as the 5 Whys, Fishbone (Ishikawa), and Fault Tree templates. You can choose from standard RCA formats or customize your own root cause template to suit the problem at hand. Once the root causes and solutions are identified, Creately lets you seamlessly transition to execution by creating Kanban boards. This helps you track, assign, and manage tasks directly related to resolving the problem.

Snapshot of Creately's Collaboration Features with a RCA Template

Collaborate on RCA Documents in Real-Time

With Creately, you can create, edit, and share RCA documents collaboratively, making it easy to involve internal teams or external partners in the analysis process. Root cause analysis templates can be co-authored live, with features like inline comments, tagging, and notes allowing for asynchronous input and clarity. Integration with platforms like Google Drive, Confluence, and Slack ensures RCA workflows stay connected to your existing documentation and communication tools.

Jumpstart Problem Solving Without Starting from Scratch

Image of Creately's root cause templates library

Creately offers a rich collection of free root cause analysis tools and templates to help you get started immediately. Each RCA template is fully customizable and professionally designed for industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing, IT, and education. You can browse multiple RCA formats—from basic to advanced—then duplicate and adapt them to suit recurring issues. When you’re done, export your work as PDFs or images for reports, presentations, or audits.

Snapshot of Creately's AI Feature with a root cause Template

Speed Up Analysis with AI-Powered Root Cause Tools

Creately’s AI features help accelerate your root cause analysis by instantly generating diagrams, suggesting possible causes, and organizing your inputs into clear RCA formats. Whether you’re using a Fishbone diagram or a 5 Whys analysis, the AI simplifies complex data and transforms notes into structured RCA documents. This means fewer manual steps, more consistency, and faster problem resolution—all within the same collaborative workspace.

What Is a Root Cause Analysis Diagram Template?

A root cause analysis template is a structured framework used to identify the underlying causes of a problem rather than just addressing its symptoms. It provides a visual and methodical way to explore contributing factors, helping teams find long-term solutions. These templates often include popular RCA formats like the 5 Whys, Fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram, and Fault Tree analysis. Using an RCA template streamlines the problem-solving process, ensures consistency, and makes it easier to document findings, collaborate with others, and take corrective action.

How to Use Creately’s Root Cause Analysis Template

Choose a template format:
Start by selecting a root cause analysis template from Creately’s library. Choose from 5 Whys, Fishbone (Ishikawa), or other structured RCA formats based on the problem you’re addressing.
Define the problem:
Clearly state the issue you’re analyzing and add it to the central node of the template. A well-defined problem statement sets the stage for accurate root cause identification.
Identify and expand possible causes:
Use Creately’s AI assistant to auto-generate potential causes based on your problem statement, or manually brainstorm with your team. The AI can help you quickly build out the structure using industry best practices and common contributing factors.
Group and analyze causes:
Drag and drop elements to organize related causes. Group similar issues, use color codes to highlight patterns, and determine which causes are most likely root causes. The visual format helps spot connections and gaps at a glance.
Collaborate with your team:
Share the RCA document with stakeholders for input. Use real-time collaboration tools, comments, and mentions to gather feedback. Creately also supports asynchronous contributions with auto-syncing across devices.
Finalize and share your RCA document:
Once the analysis is complete, summarize the findings and list corrective actions. Export your RCA as a PDF, PNG, or share directly through integrations like Google Drive, Slack, or Confluence.

Save Time and Collaborate Better Using Root Cause Analysis Templates

5 Whys Template for Design Thinking

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Scatter Diagram Example

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Affinity Diagram Workspace

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FAQs About the Root Cause Analysis Template

What can I do with Creately’s online root cause analysis tool?

With Creately’s online root cause analysis tool, you can visually map out problems, identify root causes using formats like 5 Whys or Fishbone diagrams, and collaborate with your team in real time. You can customize diagrams, add data, comment, and even move straight into action by managing tasks with built-in Kanban boards—all in one unified online workspace.

Is a root cause analysis template suitable for all industries?

Yes, root cause analysis templates can be used across a wide range of industries—including manufacturing, healthcare, IT, education, and logistics. Creately offers RCA templates and formats that are flexible enough to fit industry-specific needs and compliance standards.

How long does it take to complete an RCA using the template?

With Creately’s intuitive interface and AI-powered features, you can complete a basic RCA in under 30 minutes. More complex issues may take longer depending on the number of contributing factors and the depth of analysis required.

What’s the difference between a root cause analysis template and an RCA format?

An RCA format refers to the structure or methodology used—such as 5 Whys or Fishbone diagrams. A root cause analysis template is a ready-made, editable version of that format designed to help you apply the method quickly and consistently.

Can I track action items or resolutions within the template?

Yes, Creately allows you to assign tasks, add due dates, and link follow-up actions directly within your RCA document. This makes it easy to move from analysis to resolution without switching tools.

Does the template support team brainstorming sessions?

Absolutely. Creately’s root cause analysis tools support real-time collaboration, which is ideal for team-based brainstorming. Everyone can contribute simultaneously or asynchronously, with changes synced across all users.

Create a Root Cause Analysis

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