Which of the following best describes ongoing root cause analysis?

Ongoing root cause analysis is fundamentally about the continuous identification of issues that affect process performance. This approach emphasizes the need for organizations to consistently evaluate their processes and systems to uncover the underlying causes of problems rather than just addressing symptoms. By focusing on ongoing analysis, organizations can remain proactive in identifying potential pitfalls or inefficiencies, which helps maintain and improve overall performance effectively.

The nature of this methodology is iterative, meaning it is not a fleeting activity but rather a sustained commitment to monitoring and refining processes over time. Continuous improvement is a critical component of quality management systems, and ongoing root cause analysis helps to ensure that these efforts are targeted effectively. This choice aligns with principles of methodologies like Six Sigma, where understanding and eliminating root causes is essential for driving performance and quality improvements.