Get to the root of an issue by going beyond the surface level answers
Project Stage:
Develop
Who:
Experts
Decision makers
Service Providers
Design Principles:
The 5 Whys is a simple, yet effective problem-solving technique used to explore the root cause of an issue. By asking “why” multiple times – typically five – you progressively drill down to uncover the underlying cause or issue. This method is especially helpful for spotting problems that point to bigger, underlying issues.
Use it to
Identify and solve root causes of problems rather than symptoms.
Improve processes or services by understanding underlying issues.
Facilitate more in-depth thinking and avoid surface-level solutions.
Top Tips
Keep asking “why” until you feel you’ve reached the root cause.
Involve stakeholders from different levels to ensure comprehensive answers.
Be careful not to blame individuals; focus on group processes.
Sometimes it may take more or fewer than five “whys” to get to the root.
How – to
Identify a problem to be investigated.
Ask the first “Why” and note the answer.
Based on the response, ask another “Why.”
Continue this process until you reach a root cause or a point where further questioning no longer adds value.
5 Whys
Get to the root of an issue by going beyond the surface level answers
The 5 Whys is a simple, yet effective problem-solving technique used to explore the root cause of an issue. By asking “why” multiple times – typically five – you progressively drill down to uncover the underlying cause or issue. This method is especially helpful for spotting problems that point to bigger, underlying issues.
Use it to
Top Tips
How – to
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