Get to the Root of Any Problem with the 5 Whys Technique

Discover the 5 Whys Technique, a powerful problem-solving tool that helps you identify root causes and create sustainable solutions. Learn how to apply this method to both personal and professional challenges.
Jan 19 / Erinn Rist

A few years ago I came across a meme I still find relatable and hilarious. It is a simple exchange between a person and their brain:

You: "Why do I feel terrible?"
Brain: Coffee is not a meal.
Brain: Eat a vegetable.
Brain: Sleep!
You: "I guess we will never know."
Brain: OHMIGOD!

I'd bet that most of us can relate to this scenario at some point within our own lives. When faced with something less than ideal, we often refrain from uncovering the direct cause and, instead, accept it. We endure the situation until it reaches a point of unbearable discomfort, ultimately forcing us to confront and attempt to fix it. However, the path to a solution is not always straightforward. Fortunately, there is a relatively simple process that can assist in uncovering the core of the problem.

Cue the 5 Whys Technique.

The 5 Whys technique is often attributed to Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of Toyota Industries. This technique is an integral part of the Toyota Production System and has had a worldwide influence on the lean manufacturing industry. However, it has also been enthusiastically adopted across various industries as a powerful tool for problem-solving and continuous improvement.

How it works:

This technique is a problem-solving method that involves asking "why" multiple times to identify the root cause of a problem. The goal is to uncover the underlying issues rather than just addressing the symptoms. Typically used in the context of process improvement and root cause analysis, the technique helps individuals (or teams) dive deeper into the reasons behind a problem by repeatedly asking "why" until a fundamental cause is identified.

The process involves asking "why" five times in succession, though the number of iterations can vary depending on the situation. Each "why" prompts a deeper exploration of the factors contributing to the problem, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding and effective resolution.

Putting it Into Action:

Step 1: Identify the Problem. Clearly define the problem you want to address. Be specific in articulating the issue you're facing.

Step 2: Ask the First "Why." Ask yourself, or your team, "Why did this problem occur?" and note the immediate cause.

Step 3: Ask "Why" Four More Times. For each answer obtained, ask "Why" again. Repeat this process five times to delve deeper into the underlying factors.

Step 4: Look for the Root Cause. Analyze the responses to identify the root cause of the problem. This is the fundamental reason behind the issue.

Step 5: Address the Root Cause. Develop and implement targeted solutions to address the identified root cause. This may involve process changes, preventive measures, or corrective actions.

Let's look at an example of the problem of always feeling tired:

Why am I always feeling tired?
Answer: I consistently get insufficient sleep during the night.
Why do I consistently get insufficient sleep during the night?
Answer: I have difficulty falling asleep due to racing thoughts and stress.
Why do I have difficulty falling asleep due to racing thoughts and stress?
Answer: I bring work-related concerns to bed and struggle to unwind before sleep.
Why do I bring work-related concerns to bed and struggle to unwind before sleep?
Answer: I have a demanding job that often requires me to work late hours.
Why do I have a demanding job that often requires me to work late hours?
Answer: There is a high workload and tight project deadlines, leading to the need for extended working hours.

Root Cause: The root cause of always feeling tired is a combination of a demanding job, high workload, tight project deadlines, and difficulty managing stress, which results in insufficient and poor-quality sleep.
Solution: Address the root cause by implementing strategies to manage stress, set boundaries for work hours, prioritize tasks, and establish a calming bedtime routine to improve sleep quality.

You can see this shown in the diagram below:

While the example provided offers a simplified view, getting into the root cause of a problem might require time and focused contemplation. Journaling might be helpful here, but be patient with yourself throughout this process. It's okay if it takes a bit longer; the journey to uncovering the core issue can be complicated. If you find yourself feeling stuck or discouraged, reach out to a trusted person. They may be able to offer valuable outsider insights to help navigate any roadblocks you encounter.

Remember, it's a journey of discovery, so allow yourself the time and space to unravel the layers of the issue.

Bringing It Home:

In the pursuit of personal and professional development, problem-solving skills are a super power. The 5 Whys technique provides a structured approach to get to the root cause of issues. Whether you're addressing challenges at work or seeking self-improvement, it's a powerful tool in your problem-solving toolkit. It can help you can gain deeper insights, make informed decisions, and work towards creating sustainable solutions.

We've created a blank 5 Whys Worksheet just for you! Grab your free copy here: 5Whys.pdf


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