Business Pitch Dictionary by pitch.dog
Lean, quality improvement & root cause · Working

Special-cause variation

Also called: assignable-cause variation

ELI5

Variation arising from an unusual identifiable factor.

Used in conversation

“Can we remove the ambiguity around special-cause variation before the process changes?”

Pitch context

You will see “Special-cause variation” in operating plans, procurement packs, supplier reviews and supply-chain reports when the discussion reaches lean, quality improvement & root cause.

Why it matters: In lean, quality improvement & root cause, the definition can change ownership, capacity, process, cost or safety decisions.

Sources & evidence · 3

Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.