FADE²
FADE² is an acronym for the five phases a Quality Improvement team works through to solve problems and improve
processes: Focus, Analyze, Develop, Execute, and Evaluate. Included with the methodology are a
number of problem-solving tools, all designed to help a team understand the current process,
drill down to determine the root cause(s) of process problems, determine the optimal solutions,
implement those solutions, then monitor results:
FADE² Problem-Solving Methodology
Phase |
Outcome |
Tools |
Focus |
Understand the current process and problem or opportunity for improvement to reach
consensus on a team problem statement. |
Brainstorming
Affinity Diagram
Flow chart
Decision matrix |
Analyze |
To collect and analyze the data needed to determine the root
cause(s) of the problem. |
Checksheets
Surveys
Control charts
Measurement charts
Five “Why’s”
Fishbone diagram
Pareto diagram |
Develop |
To identify and develop the solution(s) that will best reduce
or eliminate the causes. |
Brainstorming
Force Field Analysis
Decision matrix |
Execute |
To develop a detailed action plan for testing and implementing solutions and process improvements. |
Action planning:
- Responsibility matrix
- Contingency diagram
- GANTT chart
Piloting improvements |
Evaluate |
To implement ongoing measurement and improvements. |
Data collection & analysis
The 4 “H’s”
Process standardization |
|
