What is TOPS 8D?

TWI Frequently asked question

by Michèle Routley

Team-Oriented Problem Solving using 8 Disciplines was implemented by Ford, and follows an original approach developed by Kepner-Tregoe. The eight disciplines are:

1. Use a team approach - involve those closest to the issue and with authority to act
2. Describe the problem in quantifiable terms
3. Implement short-term actions to contain the problem and check they work
4. Define the root-cause(s) and check that the presumed cause is correct
5. Define and evaluate effectiveness of long-term corrective actions
6. Implement long-term corrective actions
7. Modify the systems and procedures to prevent reoccurrence
8. Recognise the efforts of the team.

TOPS 8D is a reductionist problem solving approach in that it looks for a solution to remedy the immediate problem, but does not require an optimal solution nor does it investigate outside the direct system of interest. (Thereforein a worst case scenario, implementation of a solution for one problem may result in a new problem).