Root cause analysis template
In shortUse this template to run a root cause analysis on paper or in a spreadsheet: problem, facts, causes, actions with owners and dates, and a follow-up check. Or let RapidRCA fill in the first version for you.
The template
| Section | What to write |
|---|---|
| Problem statement | What happened, where, when and what it cost |
| Facts and evidence | Photos, readings, records, alarms, what people saw, and what still needs checking |
| 5 Whys | Why 1 to Why 5, ending in a cause you can control |
| Fishbone categories | People, method, machine, material, measurement, environment |
| Root cause | One clear sentence, and its category |
| Actions | Action, type (corrective or preventive), owner, target date, status |
| Prevention | Which procedure or maintenance plan will change |
| Verification | How and when you will check that it worked |
| Sign-off | Prepared by, reviewed and approved by |
A simple action table
| Action | Type | Owner | Target date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example: add a filter check to the PM | Preventive | Planner | dd/mm/yyyy | Not started |
| Example: replace the damaged part | Corrective | Technician | dd/mm/yyyy | In progress |
Tips
- Write the problem in one sentence first.
- Keep facts separate from opinions.
- Give every action an owner and a date.
- Include at least one preventive action.
- Book the follow-up check before you close the RCA.
Let RapidRCA fill it in
RapidRCA builds this structure from your description, photo or file, and you can edit every field, assign actions and download a report.
Frequently asked questions
What should a root cause analysis template include?
A problem statement, facts, 5 Whys or a fishbone, the root cause, actions with owners and dates, how the fix will be verified, and sign-off.
Is there a free root cause analysis template?
The template on this page is free to copy. RapidRCA also produces a complete report from your description, which you can print or download.
Run your own root cause analysis.
Describe the failure or add a photo or file, and RapidRCA builds the 5 Whys, fishbone, actions and report, using the ROOTS method.
Start an RCA
Describe the failure or add a photo or file, and RapidRCA builds the 5 Whys, fishbone, actions and report, using the ROOTS method.
Start an RCA
Last updated 14 October 2026. These guides explain a method and give examples. Always follow your equipment manufacturer's manual, your site procedures and applicable regulations.