Causal Mapping

It is impossible to solve a problem without a good understanding of its causes.  Individuals, project teams, and organizations can use a causal map to (1) better understand a problem by “connecting the dots” between the causes and effects, (2) identify ways to solve the problem, (3) create a shared understanding of the problem and the best solution to that problem.  This tutorial provides detailed information on how to create and use causal maps.  The paper compares a traditional Ishikawa (Fishbone, Cause & Effect) diagram with the more general causal map and argues that the more general causal map is easier to use and more flexible.  The paper presents a number of best practices for causal mapping that go far beyond the teaching normally provided with the Fishbone Diagram.  This tutorial ends with a one-page summary suitable for use as a handout.  (18 pages)