Introduction:

In our recent webinar, Craig Smith, COMET’s Head of Operations, shared actionable ways to use Root Maps to identify the underlying causes of incidents. Ideal for both experienced COMET users and those new to root cause analysis (RCA), the session offered practical, effective methods for improving investigations. This article will give you an overview of the mainpoints covered. Additionally, you can check out the full recording to learn more.

Key Takeaways:

1. Highlights of the Webinar Series

This session is one of several in our safety and techfocused series, covering topics from human error to data collection. You can find details of future sessions here.

2. Core Principles of Root Maps and RCA

Craig highlighted the importance of a structured, evidence-based approach to RCA. Proper RCA isn’t just about closing off incidents; it’s about building resilience and helping prevent similar issues infuture.

3. How COMET’s Root Maps Work

  • Organised Categories and Structure: COMET’s Root Maps help users analyse incidents from multiple perspectives, making it easier to capture all contributing factors.
  • Connected Root Causes: Incidents often involve several, interconnected causes. COMET’s structure reveals these clusters to provide a clearer, more complete picture.
  • Avoiding Investigation Pitfalls: Craig shared ways to avoid focusing investigations on a single cause, encouraging a broader view for deeper insights.

4. Using Data for Long-Term RCA Improvements

Craig offered a quick demo of COMET’s dashboards, showing how to spot patterns that help organisations identify recurring issues. He introduced COMET’s Best Practices Scoreboard, a tool that helps teams assess investigation quality for continuous improvement.

5. Building a Culture of Learning

Craig encouraged using RCA findings to make company-wide improvements. COMET’s tools make it easier to translate insights from investigations into proactive steps for improved incident management.

Conclusion:

This session highlighted how Root Maps transform incident investigations from reactive fixes to proactive learning opportunities. Watch the full recording to learn more, and sign up for upcoming webinars for more practical RCA tips and tools.

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