TS EN 9136

TS EN 9136 addresses a common 9S methodology for root cause analysis and problem solving in aerospace organizations. It provides a structured way to understand not only the visible symptoms of nonconformities, defects, and failures, but also the underlying causes that drive them and the actions needed to reduce recurrence.

Where the 9S methodology fits in quality improvement

In general technical practice, root cause analysis separates symptoms from the fundamental reasons a problem occurs. That distinction is especially important in aerospace, where the effects on quality, delivery performance, and cost are often interconnected. The 9S approach gives teams a common language and a disciplined framework for defining the problem, sharing its impact, classifying the associated causes, and developing lasting countermeasures.

What this standard focuses on

The standard is aimed at having processes in place to detect and eradicate significant and recurrent issues. Its emphasis is on ensuring that the problem is clearly identified, that its impact is commonly understood, that the associated root causes are defined, and that appropriate actions are implemented so similar issues do not happen again. In that sense, it supports problem solving as a continuous-improvement mechanism rather than a one-time corrective activity.

• Clarifies the difference between a root cause and a visible symptom.
• Supports a shared approach to recurrent issues.
• Helps teams assess quality, delivery, and cost effects within one problem-solving framework.
• Provides a common methodology for communication and action tracking across the aerospace supply chain.