Handling problems and defects in software development projects is difficult in many organizations. The problems’ analyses, when performed, usually do not focus on the problems sources and root causes. As a result, bad decisions are taken and the problem is unsolved. This leads to dissatisfaction, increased costs, and lack of quality. Causal analysis and resolution prevents the introduction of defects into a product by integrating into each phase of the project thereby improving quality and productivity. Defects and problems arise from other projects or from the earlier phases of the current project. Causal analysis and resolution activities are therefore the communicating lessons learned among projects. It helps the software development companies to improve the quality and process performance of their activities and enhances the productivity.
Identification of the team members and their roles is critical. One person needs to oversee the causal analysis process. The responsibilities of the causal analysis team leader would be conducting the defect causal analysis meetings, monitoring completion of actions, updating the status of actions and providing feedback to management, and other staff. The contribution of these staff is important, because they are knowledgeable of the causes, have an interest in the defect information, and can benefit from the result of the analysis. The defect causal analysis team members are responsible for attending causal analysis meetings, documenting the results of defect causal analysis meetings, and implementing the recommended corrective action.