You are the project manager of the NGH project for your organization. You want to create a cause-and-effect diagram to help discover the root causes of the risks within the project. Harold, the CIO, recommends that you create an Ishikawa diagram instead. What is an Ishikawa diagram?

A.
It shows how various elements of a system interrelate.

B.
It diagrams the risks according to the work breakdown structure including resources.

C.
It is a graphical representation of situations showing causal influences.

D.
It is the same thing as a root cause diagram.

Explanation:

An Ishikawa diagram is the same thing as a cause and effect diagram. This is also known as a fishbone diagram.

The Ishikawa diagram (or fishbone diagram or also cause-and-effect diagram) are diagrams, that shows the causes of a certain event. A common use of the Ishikawa diagram is to identify potential ors causing an overall effect. It helps identify causal ors and contributing causes. It is known as a fishbone diagram because of its shape, similar to the side view of a fish skeleton. It is considered as a basic tool of quality management.
Answer option A is incorrect. This is the definition of a system or process flowchart. Answer option C is incorrect. This is the definition of an influence diagram. Answer option B is incorrect. This is the definition of the risk breakdown structure including project resources.
Reference: “Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide), Fourth Edition”