74% of problems get solved at the symptom level. (That’s why they come back.) Credits toEric Partaker, make sure to follow! ________ Top CEOs don’t just move fast. They move smart. Because solving the right problem beats solving the wrong one quickly. Here are 5 mental models every founder and CEO should keep in their toolkit: 1. Pre-Mortem Analysis ➟ Plan like failure is inevitable. ➟ Spot what could go wrong—and fix it before it happens. ➟ Use this before launches, hires, or high-stakes bets. 2. The 5 Whys Framework ➟ Ask “why?” five times. ➟ It sounds simple. It’s not. ➟ Most teams treat symptoms. This digs deep and finds the root. 3. Decision Tree Analysis ➟ Map your options. Visualize outcomes. ➟ Use it when the decision involves people, capital, or risk. ➟ It brings clarity to complexity. 4. Rapid SWOT ➟ Quick clarity in chaotic moments. • What’s working? • What’s broken? • Where’s the upside? ➟ Perfect for offsites, pivots, and team resets. 5. Impact vs. Effort Matrix ➟ Every task has a cost. ➟ This filters the noise and focuses your team. ➟ So you move fast—on the right things. When pressure’s high, frameworks reduce decision fatigue. They create structure in chaos. And help you lead with consistency—even in uncertain moments. Mental models aren’t just tools. They’re multipliers. The better your thinking, the better your outcomes. Most CEOs don’t lack effort. They lack a thinking system. Save this. Use it before your next big decision. Smart leaders don’t guess. They model their way forward.
The purpose of this procedure is to define the steps to do a 4M Analysis of a system or subsystem. The goal of this 4M Analysis Procedure is to reduce losses in the factory by using the Equipment Attributes as a guideline to achieve this end.
4M Analysis Steps
Define Improvement Statement
List Issues into Categories
Resolve Issues
Define Improvement Statement
4M Fishbone Diagram
Select a process system or item that can be replaced by another type of system if necessary.
Each attribute contains a definition and a set of details that define its purpose
Define Statement for Fishbone
“Improve”
Select Process
Select Attribute
Statement:
Improve
COB Unloading Area
General & Operator Maintainability
List Issues Into Categories
Put a category on each branch of the fishbone and fill in the attributes of each category on the branch
4M Fishbone Diagram
List Issues Into Categories
Man
Skill
Technology
Organization
Resources
Communications
Machine
Design
Installation
Supplier
Methods
Schedule
Procedure
Material
Design
Quality
Other
Budget
Demand
Now the team asked the questions of each category: (Evaluating “Man & Skill”) How does “a person’s skill affect the process we are trying to improve”.
After each question, all of the issues that arise are listed under that subcategory of the 4M
Capture & List Issues into Categories
Machine
Design
Visual access limited
Easy access limited
Maintainability limited (bearings)
Installation
Mounting brackets not clean design
Conveyors stacked on top of one another
Supplier
Too much string
Too many damaged cases
4M Analysis Resolution of Issues
Select Condition from list of Issues on the fishbone
Example: “Design – Visual access limited”
Select Proper Problem Solving Methodology
Problem Solving Methodologies
Autonomous Maintenance Process
Standards
Inspection, Cleaning & Lubrication
Root Cause Analysis
Cap Do Process
5S Checklist
One Point Lesson Plans
Re-engineering (MP Data)
Project Safety Checklist
Select Owner of Countermeasures
Create work order to schedule work for trades
Schedule Countermeasure Completion
30 days after completion, evaluate countermeasure to ensure that all of the expectations, of the owners, have been met. If not, re-do cause and analysis.
https://tinyurl.com/33mtsu8a
Summary:
The 4M analysis process, primarily used in manufacturing and quality management, helps identify potential causes of problems by categorizing them into four key areas: Man, Machine, Material, and Method. This structured approach allows for a more systematic and efficient root cause analysis, leading to improved processes and reduced defects.
Here's a breakdown of the 4M categories:
Man (People):
This encompasses the human factors involved in the process, including skills, training, experience, work habits, and even physical and mental well-being. For example, a lack of training or improper handling of equipment could be categorized under "Man".
Machine (Equipment):
This category focuses on the machinery, tools, and technology used in the process. Considerations include maintenance schedules, reliability, performance, and suitability for the task. A faulty machine or one that isn't properly calibrated could be a contributing factor.
Material:
This refers to the raw materials, components, and supplies used in the process. Quality, consistency, and proper storage are key aspects to examine within this category. Defective materials, improper handling, or inconsistent supply could be issues.
Method:
This category covers the processes, procedures, and instructions used to complete a task. It includes workflows, standard operating procedures, and quality control measures. Outdated or poorly designed methods, lack of clarity in instructions, or non-standardized procedures could be problematic.
By systematically analyzing each of these four Ms, businesses can pinpoint the root causes of problems, implement corrective actions, and ultimately improve overall efficiency and product quality. The 4M analysis is a foundational tool for continuous improvement methodologies like Kaizen and Six Sigma.
