The structure representing a potential failure mode, its effects and causes is shown in the example.
As can be seen, a failure is not caused by a single cause. It can be caused by any one or multiple of the potential causes.
A failure once occurs will potentially lead to all the Effects listed here. No matter which cause has led to the failure.
Thus, there is direct one-to-one relationship between Causes and Effects.
A spreadsheet representation of FMEA leads to a mistaken belief that a Cause is related to an Effect written in the same row of the spreadsheet.
The actions for risk avoidance that stem out of such a belief will not be effective towards problem solving. The true relationship in a FMEA is:
- Multiple Causes lead to a Failure Mode
- A Failure Mode leads to Multiple Effects
- Actions are required to be taken on Causes
