> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://iam.highonproduct.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://iam.highonproduct.com/modules/preparing-for-interviews/commonly-asked-questions-+-framework-types/root-cause-analysis.md).

# Root Cause Analysis

Why did the project manager get fired? They couldn't get to the root cause of all the delays!

### Goal of this Framework

* Demonstrates your ability to critically analyze problems
* Identify underlying causes and develop effective solutions
* During a project's life cycle, various issues or challenges may arise, and the interviewer wants to assess your problem-solving skills and how you approach these situations.

### How-Tos for Tackling RCA problems in PM Interviews

* Start by collecting information about the problem’s nature and its extent
* Formulate hypotheses on potential causes. Consider both internal and external factors.
* Sometimes, based on the problem's nature, the interviewer may prompt you to start with a conversion funnel (e.g. when number of active users have dropped for a product)
* Once your hypothesis is proven right, narrow down to a root cause (ask additional questions if needed).
* Finally, suggest some solutions (new features, improvements, etc.) 

Learn more about the framework here:

1. **Blog:** <https://userpilot.com/blog/root-cause-analysis-product-management/>
2. **Video:** <https://youtu.be/DSV-vuvmIro?feature=shared> (We'll take a slightly different approach, make sure to attend the session!)
3. **Cracking the PM Interview** (Gayle L. McDowell | Jackie Bavaro)
4. **The Product Manager Interview** (Lewis C Lin with Teng Lu) - Chapter 17

By following these steps, you can effectively handle root cause analysis questions in a project management interview, demonstrating your ability to identify and address underlying issues systematically.