Causal Factor
A causal factor is an event or circumstance which, if removed from an antecedent chain of events or conditions, will alter the details of a result (e.g., magnitude or probability of occurrence) but not preclude its essential nature. The term is most often used in the context of Root Cause Analysis, where the “result” is... read more
Distal Cause
A distal cause that is an event or circumstance that is remote to the point or time of an event or condition, having precipitated other events or circumstances leading to the result. Contrast with proximate cause, root cause, and causal factor. For distal causes where the separation factor is time alone, see latent1. Footnotes Causes... read more
Four-bar Linkage Failure Functional Discovery Analysis
Functional techniques are usually discussed in the context of a requirements development process. They can, however, support other processes. A concrete example is described here, based on events in the real world. read more.
Latent (Failure, Defect, Cause)
A circumstance or condition present for some significant period of time before other events precipitate its consequence. The term is most often used in the context of Root Cause Analysis.
Machine Controller Test Anomaly
Functional techniques are usually discussed in the context of a requirements development process. They can, however, support other processes. The concrete example described here was based on events in which the presence of any perceptible functionality at all was in doubt. read more.
Proximate Cause
A proximate cause is an event or circumstance immediately adjacent to a result. Contrast with root cause, causal factor, and distal cause.
Root Cause
A root cause is an event or circumstance which, independent of all others, is sufficient to precipitate some specific result. The term is most often used in the context of Root Cause Analysis, where the “result” is a failure under investigation. Contrast with causal factor, proximate cause, and distal cause.