Tool 144: Problem Selection Matrix

AKA

N/A

Tool description

A problem selection matrix allows the team to choose a particular problem on the basis of discussion and team rating against listed criteria. A major consideration in the selection process is the impact that identified problems currently have on customer satisfaction, defect per unit level, and process cycle time.

Typical application

• To select a problem for a team.

• To differentiate among several problem conditions in order to determine which problem must be worked on first.

• To rank order identfied problems by team-established importance criteria.

Problem-solving phase

→	Select and define problem or opportunity
→	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
	Develop and plan possible solution or change
	Implement and evaluate solution or change
	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

	Research/statistics
	Creativity/innovation
	Engineering
3	Project management
	Manufacturing
	Marketing/sales
	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
2	Customer/quality metrics
1	Change management

links to other tools

before

• Variance Analysis

• Cause and Effect Diagram (CED)

• Five Whys

• Process Analysis

• Benchmarking

after

• Problem Specification

• Information Needs Analysis

• Action Plan

• Decision Process Flowchart

• Problem Analysis

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 The team facilitator prepares a problem selection matrix and records previously noted problem areas.

• STEP 2 Team participants brainstorm rating criteria and reach consensus on 4-5 important categories. See example Assembly Section "C"—Production Problems.

• STEP 3 Participants rate all problem areas against stated criteria and rank problem areas accordingly, as shown in the example.

• STEP 4 The team facilitator completes the problem selection matrix, circles problem area selected, and dates the matrix.

Example of tool application

Assembly Section "C"—Production Problems

Problems Areas		Team Has Control	Short Time	Resources Available	Affects Customer	Team Ranking
1	Lack of work instructions	+	+	○	+
2	Lack of operator training	+	+	−	○	2
3	Higher parts reject rate	−	+	○	○	4
4	Increase in rework hours	○	−	○	+	3
Notes: The rating smbols are (+) = yes, (−) = no, (○) = uncertain. The team selects problem area No. 1, rank to be worked on first.