What is the first step in constructing a Pareto chart?

The correct answer revolves around the importance of selecting a specific problem and its potential causes before diving into the data collection process. This step is crucial as it sets the focus for the analysis and ensures that the data gathered will be relevant and useful in addressing the identified issue. By defining the problem clearly, teams can concentrate their efforts on the most significant areas, allowing for more effective prioritization and problem-solving later in the process.

Gathering data is essential, but it should follow the identification of a clear problem statement. Without defining what the focus will be and understanding the potential causes, it would be challenging to collect pertinent data that accurately reflects the situation. Choosing measurement units and drafting the chart layout are also important steps but come after determining what specific issue and causes need to be evaluated. Thus, selecting a problem and potential causes lays the foundation for a meaningful and effective analysis, which is why it is considered the first step in constructing a Pareto chart.