Root Cause Analysis Mini-Series: Foundations of Effective RCA (Part 1)

In today’s increasingly complex operational landscape, organizations face recurring issues that drain resources, impact quality, and hinder performance. Too often, teams focus on treating symptoms rather than addressing the true underlying causes.

This first session in our three-part RCA mini-series lays the groundwork for a strong, practical understanding of Root Cause Analysis by stripping the discipline back to its essentials. Participants will learn what RCA is, why it matters, and how it differs from quick fixes or symptom-level troubleshooting.

Using clear examples, including the distinction between symptoms and true causes, this webinar introduces the mindset, principles, and structure required for effective problem solving. We will explore the foundational RCA process, the importance of asking “why,” and the role of accurate data in uncovering the real drivers behind recurring issues. Accurate and relevant data are crucial for identifying the true root cause.

By the end of Part 1, attendees will be equipped with the conceptual clarity needed to move confidently into tool-based and application-focused RCA work in later sessions.

Objective

• Define Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and clarify its role in effective problem solving.
• Differentiate between symptoms, contributing factors, and true root causes.
• Introduce the core principles that guide successful RCA.
• Highlight the importance of accurate data collection and analysis.
• Demonstrate how RCA supports prevention, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
• Prepare participants for deeper tool-based and application-focused learning in future sessions.

Agenda

• Introduction
• What is Root Cause Analysis (RCA)?
• Symptoms vs. Root Causes
• Why Asking “Why” Matters
• Key Principles of Effective RCA
• The Role of Data in RCA
• Q&A

Target Audience:

• Quality and Process Improvement Professionals
• Engineers and Technicians
• Project Managers
• Operations and Production Managers
• Safety and Compliance Professionals
• Healthcare and Service Industry Practitioners
• Anyone involved in problem-solving or corrective action processes

Language: English

Cost: No Charge

Can't attend the live session? Register now to receive a complimentary recording after the live event.

Speakers:

Sabrina Ippolito

Lead Auditor

With an avid passion for implementing efficient, effective, and lean quality systems, Sabrina believes that at the heart of every successful organization is a learning organization. She works with organizations to break down the barriers of silo mentalities that plague many companies and helps surface a wide array of talent within organizations.

Sabrina is a classically trained biochemist and Certified Lead Auditor who helps organizations maintain compliance and certification across a range of industries and standards spanning pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and general manufacturing. She has directed, overseen, and improved several quality systems to reduce deficiencies and increase product flow across the United States, Canada, and Europe. She is affiliated with the Ordre des chimistes du Québec (l’OCQ) and the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

Cindy Haight

Regional Sales Manager – Industrial and Mobility, SGS North America, Inc.

Cindy began her career in the certification industry 20 years ago as a Global Key Account Manager for another certification body, where she helped large international companies achieve their certification objectives. In 2016, she transitioned to providing training solutions while also supporting customer service and operational processes.

Cindy joined SGS in January 2022 and works to provide solutions that help clients meet their goals. She specializes in management system standards, including those addressing quality, health and safety, and environmental concerns.