When looking at a problem, it is important to distinguish between the primary or root cause and the contributing causes in order to develop the necessary corrective actions to prevent the problem from reoccurring. This type of analysis also establishes the basis of other performance assessment activities.

This sample questionnaire can be used by organizations as a starting point for sourcing the root causes of problems or risks. Sample questions include: What performance gap or deficiency has been identified? What was the damage or consequence? Did the process perform the way it was supposed to perform? What are the measurable objectives of the business process?