Tool 64: Dendrogram

AKA

Reviewed Dendrogram

Classification

Evaluating/Selecting (ES)

Tool description

The dendrogram displays, in a tree-type classification format, clusters of characteristics or ideas to be analyzed for potential breakthroughs in product design and development. It can also be used to detail possible solutions to problems or examine process improvement opportunities.

Typical application

• To search for potential product innovations.

• To break down and classify large data sets.

• To review and question ideas for problem resolution or process improvement.

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

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

links to other tools

before

• Cluster Analysis

• Brainwriting Pool

• Crawford Slip Method

• Delphi Method

• Focus Group

after

• House of Quality

• Activity analysis

• Factor Analysis

• Opportunity Analysis

• Creativity Assessment

Notes and key points

• Dendrograms are often used to display the outcomes or results of cluster analyses.

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 The team facilitator describes the use of a dendrogram and asks the team to brainstorm items within an area of interest. See example Development of a Better Classroom Pointer.

• STEP 2 The facilitator draws the dendrogram on a whiteboard as the participants further break down a selected characteristic or idea.

• STEP 3 The participants discuss preferred ideas and select one for product innovation or problem analysis, as shown in this example.

• STEP 4 The participants review the flowdown of characteristics or ideas and date the dendrogram.

Example of tool application

Development of a Better Classroom Pointer