5 Ways To Create A Fishbone Diagram In Excel

Creating a fishbone diagram, also known as an Ishikawa diagram or a cause-and-effect diagram, is a powerful tool for identifying and organizing the root causes of a problem. The diagram's distinctive shape, resembling a fishbone, makes it easy to visualize the relationships between different factors. While there are specialized tools and software for creating fishbone diagrams, you can also create one in Microsoft Excel. Here are five ways to create a fishbone diagram in Excel:

What is a Fishbone Diagram?

A fishbone diagram is a visual representation of the relationships between different factors that contribute to a specific problem or effect. It is commonly used in Six Sigma and quality management to identify the root causes of a problem and develop strategies for improvement. The diagram consists of a central spine, which represents the problem or effect, and several branches that represent the different categories of causes.

Method 1: Using Excel Shapes

One way to create a fishbone diagram in Excel is by using the built-in shape tools. To do this, follow these steps:

• Go to the "Insert" tab in the ribbon and click on "Shapes."
• Select the "Line" shape and draw a horizontal line to represent the central spine of the fishbone diagram.
• Add branches to the diagram by selecting the "Line" shape again and drawing lines that intersect with the central spine.
• Use the "Text" shape to add labels to the branches and the central spine.

Method 2: Using Excel SmartArt

Another way to create a fishbone diagram in Excel is by using SmartArt. SmartArt is a tool that allows you to create pre-designed diagrams and graphics. To create a fishbone diagram using SmartArt, follow these steps:

• Go to the "Insert" tab in the ribbon and click on "SmartArt."
• Select the "Hierarchy" category and choose the "Organizational Chart" template.
• Customize the template by adding and removing shapes to create a fishbone diagram.

Method 3: Using Excel Add-ins

There are several Excel add-ins available that can help you create a fishbone diagram. One popular add-in is the "Fishbone Diagram" template from Microsoft. To use this template, follow these steps:

• Go to the "Insert" tab in the ribbon and click on "Get Add-ins."
• Search for the "Fishbone Diagram" template and download it.
• Follow the instructions to install and activate the template.
• Use the template to create a fishbone diagram.

Method 4: Using Excel VBA Macros

If you have programming skills, you can create a fishbone diagram in Excel using VBA macros. VBA macros allow you to automate repetitive tasks and create custom diagrams. To create a fishbone diagram using VBA macros, follow these steps:

• Open the Visual Basic Editor by pressing "Alt + F11" or by navigating to the "Developer" tab in the ribbon.
• Create a new module by clicking on "Insert" and then "Module."
• Write a VBA macro that creates a fishbone diagram using Excel shapes and text.

Method 5: Using Excel Templates

Finally, you can create a fishbone diagram in Excel using pre-designed templates. There are many free and paid templates available online that you can download and customize. To use a template, follow these steps:

• Search for "fishbone diagram template Excel" online and download a template.
• Open the template in Excel and customize it to fit your needs.
• Use the template to create a fishbone diagram.

Gallery of Fishbone Diagrams in Excel

Fishbone Diagram in Excel Image Gallery

Conclusion

Creating a fishbone diagram in Excel can be a powerful tool for identifying and organizing the root causes of a problem. With these five methods, you can create a fishbone diagram using Excel shapes, SmartArt, add-ins, VBA macros, or templates. Whether you're a quality manager, a business analyst, or a student, a fishbone diagram can help you visualize complex problems and develop effective solutions. Try out these methods and see which one works best for you.