An Ishikawa diagram is also sometimes called a “fishbone” diagram because when it is completed, the result is usually an image of fish bones radiating off of a core spine. It was originally developed by a Japanese quality management processes which facilitates in determining the key relationship among various processes for application in process improvement. This diagram may also refer to as the cause and effect diagram.

Based on my experience, Ishikawa diagram is the basic need in order for you to create an effective system for companies. One of my project before was to develop a Billing and Reservation System for a specific hotel. I will explain here how to create Ishikawa diagram for a hotel, or you might use this as a basis for your project.

Steps in creating Ishikawa diagram:

1. List the problem/issue to be studied in the head of the fish. You should always put the problem/issue at the head of the fish because from the head of the fish originates the main branch of the diagram.
2. Now you must identify the major categories that cause the problem. In doing this, you can use the 6M’s which are the Machine, Method, Materials, Measurement, Man and Mother nature. But what’s on the image attached is only 4M’s since my professor only required the 4Ms. Label each fishbone with the 6Ms or 4Ms.
3. After identifying the major causes, you must now identify the sub-causes of the 4Ms or 6Ms you use.
4. After listing the major causes and sub-causes you may now analyze your diagram. Analyze the results of the fish bones; make sure that adequate amount of detail has been provided under each major category.

Now, doing Ishikawa Diagram is not easy as you think, you must conduct research especially on the company where the system you are developing intended for. You should analyze the image below for proper understanding.