To successfully build a cause and effect diagram:

1. Be sure everyone agrees on the effect or problem

statement before
beginning.
2. Be succinct.
3. For each node, think what could be its causes. Add
them to the tree.
4. Pursue each line of causality back to its root cause.
5. Consider grafting relatively empty branches onto
others.
6. Consider splitting up overcrowded branches.
7. Consider, which root causes, are most likely to merit
further investigation.
Other uses for the Cause and Effect tool include the organization
diagramming, parts hierarchies, project planning, tree diagrams, and
the 5 Why's.