Rademeyer, AnerieDu Plessis, YvonneKepner, Charles H.2009-11-092009-11-092009Rademeyer, A, Du Plessis, Y & Kepner, CH 2009, 'Human performance variation analysis: a process for human performance problem solving', SA Journal of Human Resource Management, vol. 7, no. 1, pp. 1-9. [http://sajhrm.co.za/index.php/sajhrm]1683-758410.4102/sajhrm.v7i1.174http://hdl.handle.net/2263/11740Problem-solving ability is a much sought-after trait in executives, especially if it includes the ability to solve human performance problems. This paper proposes a systematic root cause analysis process that effectively and consistently uncovers the root causes of human performance problems and controls the causes in a way that prevents the problems from recurring. Applying action research the study brings into being a Human Performance Variation Analysis (HPVA) process, which consists of three phases: (1) performance variation assessment, (2) performance variation analysis, and (3) performance variation resolution. The HPVA provides much-needed capability in solving human performance problems in organisations.en© 2009. The Authors. Licensee: OpenJournals Publishing. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.Root cause analysisHuman performance assessmentHuman performance resolutionHuman performance improvementPerformance managementPersonnel managementExecutive abilityArticle