Root causes

Understanding the underpinnings of a risk can be transformative. At RSI, we delve deep into determining root causes. This approach not only offers a robust shield against potential pitfalls but can also spotlight previously unnoticed avenues for innovation and growth. Such insights allow institutions to both fortify their defenses and drive forward with proactive strategic enhancements.

Searching for the causes of risk within an organization involves a targeted investigation that not only identifies the risks themselves but also traces them back to their root causes. The aim is to understand the underlying issues that give rise to risks so that they can be more effectively managed.

The first phase usually involves scoping the investigation, similar to the risk identification process. Here, it’s important to decide which categories of risk are under investigation (e.g., financial, operational, compliance, etc.), and what the goals of the investigation are.

Once the scope is clear, the next step is data collection. This could include interviews, surveys, observation, and analysis of available documentation and data sets. Advanced methods may include statistical analysis or machine learning algorithms to sift through large data sets for patterns. Qualitative methods, such as one-on-one interviews or focus groups, can also help identify human factors or cultural issues that contribute to risks.

After the data is collected, it is analyzed to identify not just risks but also potential root causes. Techniques such as “5 Whys” analysis or Ishikawa (fishbone) diagrams are commonly used in this phase to trace the underlying causes of a given risk. Other more advanced techniques like Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) could be applied depending on the complexity of the risk landscape.

Once root causes have been identified, they can then be assessed in terms of their severity and likelihood of contributing to risk, similar to a traditional risk assessment. This allows an organization to focus on resolving the most significant root causes first, thus potentially mitigating multiple risks at once.

Finally, as part of our managing risks practice, mitigation strategies specifically targeted at these root causes can be developed and implemented. The effectiveness of these strategies can then be monitored and reviewed over time, and adjustments made as necessary.

In summary, identifying the root causes of risks within an organization involves a deeper dive than just identifying risks. It requires tracing risks back to their origins, assessing the importance of these causes, and then developing targeted mitigation strategies.