VECTRA International

Risk Analysis and Root Cause Analysis

Duration: 45-60 min Intermediate Certificate Course Updated Feb 2026

About course

Every supply chain carries risk. The question is whether you see it before it becomes a crisis.

This course introduces you to the foundations of risk analysis and root cause analysis as essential tools in the due diligence process. Drawing on real-world frameworks and international guidelines, you'll explore how risks surface across supply chains and what it takes to trace them back to their source. Whether you work on the buying or supplying side of the business, this course equips you to act earlier, smarter, and with greater confidence.

Course Outline

Section 1: Risk Analysis

  • Get familiar with what risk analysis is and why it matters. You'll explore how it fits into the due diligence process and practice identifying risks by asking the right questions — from both the buyer's and supplier's perspectives.

Section 2: Root Cause Analysis (RCA)

  • Go beyond the surface. This section introduces the principle of root cause analysis and walks you through how to properly define a problem or violation before tracing it back to its source.

Section 3: Core Root Cause Analysis Techniques

  • Put the tools to work. Learn how to apply two practical methods — the 5 WHYs technique and the Fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram — using real workplace scenarios to guide you.

Section 4: Recap of Key Learnings

  • Bring it all together. Review the most important takeaways from the course and reflect on what responsible risk management looks like in practice — what to stop, what to do less of, and what to carry forward.

Section 5: Knowledge Check

  • Test what you know. Work through scenario-based questions that challenge you to apply the tools and frameworks covered throughout the course.

Course Outcome

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Identify potential risks in a company's supply chain by asking the right questions from both the buyer's and supplier's perspectives.
  • Apply the 5 WHYs technique to systematically trace a problem back to its root cause rather than stopping at surface-level symptoms.
  • Use the Fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram to map and categorize potential source areas of a risk or violation.
  • Explain why risk analysis is a critical component of the due diligence process and how it aligns with UNGP and OECD guidelines for responsible business conduct.

Topic expert

Jelena Lucic
Jelena Lucic
Consultant

Jelena is a sustainability and supply chain strategist who integrates ESG risk management with responsible business practices to drive long-term ROI. She specializes in conducting deep-dive root cause analyses and due diligence to build compliant supply chains, ensuring ethical standards are never sacrificed for lower costs. By bridging the gap between stakeholder engagement and operational excellence, Jelena navigates complex ESG risks while fostering advanced employee relations to build a resilient, value-driven organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access my purchased courses?

You will be able to access your purchases after you’ve successfully logged into your VECTRA account. This information will include links to each of the purchases for quick navigation. You will also receive an email with a link for your training.

Can I share my access to purchased courses with others?

No, sharing access is not permitted. Each purchase provides a single-user license. Sharing access may result in the termination of your account. If you are interested in making a group purchase for your company, please write at contact@vectra-intl.com.

Can I access my purchased courses on multiple devices?

Yes, you can access your purchased products and services on multiple devices, provided you are the account holder. This allows for flexible learning and usage.

Will I get a certificate upon completing an online course?

Some courses include certificates of completion. Please check the course details for confirmation.

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