Which of the following best describes the output of a Fishbone Diagram?

The output of a Fishbone Diagram, also known as an Ishikawa or cause-and-effect diagram, is primarily focused on identifying and categorizing potential causes of a specific problem. This visual tool helps teams systematically analyze the various factors contributing to an issue by organizing them into categories (such as people, processes, equipment, materials, environment, and management).

By clearly illustrating the relationship between the problem and various potential causes, the Fishbone Diagram enables teams to brainstorm and visualize all the possible sources of the issue, making it easier to identify root causes and find solutions.

In contrast, while identifying costs associated with a process can be critical in many analyses, that focus falls outside the scope of what a Fishbone Diagram is designed to achieve. Similarly, a timeline of events may help in understanding the sequence of occurrences leading to a problem but does not represent the numerous causal factors that the Fishbone Diagram emphasizes. Thus, the correct choice highlights the primary function of the Fishbone Diagram effectively.