What is a problem tree?

A problem tree is a problem-solving tool that allows you to identify and classify the causes and consequences of a problem. To do this, the problem tree is illustrated in three parts:

  • The trunk (which is the central subject)
  • The roots (which gather the causes)
  • The branches (which gather the consequences)

To use this tool, a team must come together with a precise subject in mind. The objective is to identify the causes and consequences of the topic while prioritizing them according to their degree of importance. Once this is done, the participants have a better vision of a situation, which allows them to take the best actions in consequence.

Why is a problem tree used?

A problem tree is very effective for problem-solving because of its simplicity of use and its ability to develop new ways of thinking. This tool can be used for any type of situation, problem, conflict, etc.

Who uses a problem tree?

If you are looking for better knowledge of a subject, especially a problem, while organizing your ideas, then this tool will be for you.

How to set up a problem tree board in iObeya?

  1. Enter your room, then click Configure the room at the bottom right of the screen.
  2. Add a blank board to your room.
  3. Select the Problem Tree background from the background catalog.
  4. Add in your tool dock a new set of Notes and renames them : Subject, Cause, Consequence
  5. Your board is now ready to be used.

Pro Tips on how to set up a problem tree

We recommend group thinking in order to use this tool as effectively as possible. When you gather around a problem tree, it is important to be specific as much as possible when defining your problem. Do not hesitate to make categories divided into subcategories. The more precise you are, the easier it will be to draw conclusions.

Get started with this template

Why iObeya

Virtual Obeyas for hybrid teams

A work space structured as a physical Obeya

Best in class integrations

Jira, ADO or custom made with the API (0365 &Power automate...)

Digitize Lean and Agile Systems

Adopt Visual Management System
for your Lean & Agile methods

Enterprise-grade security

The leading secure solution
on the market

Product Highlights

Browse and read the latest product news and announcements from the iObeya team

Discover the full range of iObeya features

Boards, cards, facilitation mode, integrations and more...

€16.5M in savings achieved through optimized meetings

Check out Forrester's TEI study on Sanofi!

Guided tour

Step Into our Lean Manufacturing Showcase

Resources

Customer testimonials

Check out all of our customer
and partner testimonials

Blog

Learn more about Visual Management

Events

Find out more about our past
and future events

Product highlights

Browse and read the latest product news and announcements from the iObeya team

Features

Discover the full range of iObeya features

Discover many teamplates

Download our ready to use Lean, Agile and Visual Management templates including kanban, SQCD, ROAM....

Resource Center

A dedicated space for our users to improve their visual management practices and new ways of working within iObeya

Lean corner

Explore Our Library of Lean Standards Cheat Sheets

Your guide to Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement
& much more.

Resources

Customer testimonials

Check out all of our customer and partner testimonials

Blog

Learn more about Visual Management

Events

Find out more about our past and future events

Product highlights

Browse and read the latest product news and announcements from the iObeya team

Features

Discover the full range of iObeya features

Discover many teamplates

Download our ready to use Lean, Agile and Visual Management templates including kanban, SQCD, ROAM....

Resource Center

A dedicated space for our users to improve their visual management practices and new ways of working within iObeya

Lean corner

Explore Our Library of Lean Standards Cheat Sheets

Your guide to Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement & much more.