RCA+ Problem MapperNegative effect

Build a new RCA+ problem map

Describe the problem, add causes and effects, then use contradictions to expose the trade-offs hidden inside the situation.

Back to overview

1. Frame the problem

Move from symptom to a clear map anchor

2. Add a cause or effect

Capture structure, not just a list

3. Review the structure

Node outline

1 nodes

Selected node

Edit notation and wording

Summary

Plain-English reading of the map

Main problem

Describe the main problem you want to map

Key negative effects

Describe the main problem you want to map

Key positive effects

Map the useful side of a contradiction when it appears.

Contradiction sources

None identified yet.

Most central contradiction

No contradiction source identified yet.

Next analysis focus

Add another causal layer under the strongest drivers until the structure becomes decision-ready.

Main problem: Describe the main problem you want to map. Key negative effects and causes: Describe the main problem you want to map. Key positive effects: none mapped yet. Contradiction sources: none identified yet. Most central contradiction: No contradiction source identified yet.. Next analysis focus: Add another causal layer under the strongest drivers until the structure becomes decision-ready.

Export

Take the map into a deck, brief, or workshop

Example mode

Load a polished starting point

Baggage intake misses oversized items
An operations example where a physically larger item improves handling resilience but reduces detection quality at intake.
Priority support tickets wait too long
A service operations map where fast escalation response helps urgent customers but weakens prevention work.
Release quality drops in the final week
A product delivery example where fewer handoffs reduce friction but late batch merges create larger failure surfaces.
Live diagramAND / OR connectorsContradiction-aware
React Flow mini map
Start with a clear symptom, then add contributing causes in the left panel. Mark contradictions where one cause creates both harm and value.

How to use the map

Compact, workshop-ready workflow

Start with the visible symptom, then add the causes that directly create it.

Use `AND` when several causes must be present together. Use `OR` when any one path could be sufficient.

Promote a cause to a contradiction source when it also creates a useful outcome that the system wants to keep.

Notation

Actual negative effect / cause
Hypothetical negative effect / cause
Immutable cause
Contradiction source
Positive effect