Tool 29: Checksheet

AKA

Tally Sheet

Classification

Data Collecting (DC)

Tool description

A checksheet is a simple form designed to record and quantify facts and data over a period of time. The construction of the checksheet should be tailored to collect data on specific categories and location of defects, frequency of events, or possible causes.

Typical application

• To observe an operation and record specific data over a period of time.

• To acquire a short-term observation of process variability on the current situation.

• To identify what potential problem should be addressed first.

• To confirm the effects of problems.

Problem-solving phase

→	Select and define problem or opportunity
→	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
	Develop and plan possible solutions or change
→	Implement and evaluate solution or change
	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

3	Research/statistics
	Creativity/innovation
	Engineering
	Project management
2	Manufacturing
	Marketing/sales
4	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
1	Customer/quality metrics
	Change management

links to other tools

before

• Data Collection Strategy

• Observation

• Surveying

• Interview Technique

• Focus Group

after

• Stratum Chart

• Histogram

• Frequency Distribution (FD)

• Box Plot

• Pareto Chart

Notes and key points

Types of frequently used Checksheets:

• To count occurrences (Tally ).

• To measure activities (amounts, time, etc.)

• To locate problems or defects (Defect Map)

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 Identify data to be collected. See example Customer Complaints.

• STEP 2 Design checksheet for easy data capture.

• STEP 3 Collect data for the stated time period. Example: 20 days.

• STEP 4 After a specified period, total the check marks and input this data into the problem-solving process. Date the checksheet.

• STEP 5 Note: For another type of checksheet, see the defect map approach.

Example of tool application

Customer Complaints