Performing effective root cause analysis

Root cause analysis is a systematic approach to identifying the underlying causes of adverse events and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence, thereby improving processes, customer experience, and reducing risks. The process involves defining the problem, collecting relevant data, determining the root cause using techniques like Fishbone diagrams, Pareto analysis, and the Five Whys, and implementing solutions followed by documentation for future reference. Best practices emphasize the importance of thorough problem definition, teamwork, effective data gathering, and continuous improvement to ensure long-term solutions. Observability tools like New Relic facilitate this process by eliminating data silos and providing comprehensive visibility into tech stacks, enabling faster resolutions and more efficient operations.