Fishbone diagram template

    Last updated November 3, 2026

    The effect sits in the middle: a late shipment. Four cause groups surround it: short staff, no cutoff time, a scanner that is down, and a box shortage. This uses ordinary rectangles rather than diagonal fishbone lines. FlowSimp is completely free to use — no sign-up required.

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    When should you use it?

    Use it in a review of one defect. Put causes in the group that can actually change them.

    Risk assessment template · Troubleshooting flowchart guide

    What does each step mean?

    1. Late shipment is the effect. Keep one effect per chart.
    2. Short staff is the people cause. No cutoff time is the process cause.
    3. Scanner down is the tool. Box shortage is the material.
    4. Replace any group that does not apply. Add a cause under a group by placing another rectangle and connecting it.