The 5 Why’s is a tool designed to help identify the root cause of a problem. It is a useful starting point in encouraging teams to expand their analysis of a problem. It is also useful for highlighting the relationship between the different root causes of a problem.
Download the Word Version here: Training Tools 5 Whys
Tool Type
Problem Solving
Purpose
The 5 Why’s is a tool designed to help identify the root cause of a problem. It is a useful starting point in encouraging teams to expand their analysis of a problem. It is also useful for highlighting the relationship between the different root causes of a problem.
Time
20 minutes
Materials
2 x Flipcharts, markers.
Method
- As a group clearly define the specific problem.
- Write this down on a flipchart page and post it on the wall for all to see.
- Break into 2 or more groups. Give each group a flipchart and markers.
- Ask each group ‘why’ the problem occurs and get them to write the answer down on their flipcharts.
- Ask each group if this answer is the root cause of the problem.
- If not get them to ask ‘why’ again and write down their answer.
- Repeat until root cause (or causes) are identified.
Note: If necessary ask why more than five times! Five is just a guide number.
- Bring the group back together again and compare their respective 5 Why analyses.
- Discuss –
- What is the same / different?
- What does this tell us about the nature of the problem?
