What aspect of a process does a Fishbone Diagram primarily represent?

The Fishbone Diagram, also known as the Ishikawa or cause-and-effect diagram, is primarily used to identify and analyze potential causes of a problem within a process. This tool visually represents the various factors that contribute to an issue, categorizing them into different branches that stem from the main "backbone" of the diagram, which points to the problem being analyzed.

By using the Fishbone Diagram, teams can systematically explore all possible causes of a problem, making it easier to pinpoint root causes and improve the process effectively. This method facilitates group discussions and brainstorming sessions, allowing members to contribute their insights and expertise. As a result, the focus on potential causes makes it an invaluable tool in continuous improvement initiatives and root cause analysis within Lean Six Sigma methodologies.