Affinity Diagram: When is it used?

Use an affinity diagram when you can answer “yes” to all of the following questions:

1. Is the problem (or issue) complex and hard to understand?
If the problem or issue is relatively simple or easy to understand, a cause-and-effect diagram1 may be more appropriate.

2. Is the problem uncertain, disorganized, or overwhelming?
Complex issues often feel overwhelming due to their size.

3. Does the problem require the involvement and support of a group?
The process a group goes through to make an affinity diagram helps the group develop its own system of thought concerning the problem and builds consensus among the members.

The above article is an excerpt from the "Affinity Diagram " chapter of Practical Tools for Continuous Improvement Volume 2 Statistical Tools. This reference book is available from PQ Systems.