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5 Whys Technique




I can't stop snacking


Why ; because I'm hungry-ish

Why ; because I haven't eaten properly

Why ; because I am working, I have a lot of work to do

Why ; because I left everything to last minute

Why ; because the global pandemic threw my schedule out the window


Five whys is a technique using a repetitive process to explore the cause-and-effect relationships underlying a particular problem.


The primary goal of the technique is to determine the root cause of a defect or problem by repeating the question "Why?". Each answer forms the basis of the next question. The "five" in the name derives from average number of stages needed to resolve the problem. Not all problems have a single root cause. If one want to uncover multiple root causes, the method must be repeated asking a different sequence of questions each time.


Now that you know what it means; here are the rules:

  1. The more the merrier, It is necessary to engage the management in the five whys process in a company.

  2. Use paper or whiteboard instead of computers.

  3. Write down the problem and make sure that all people understand it.

  4. Distinguish causes from symptoms.

  5. Pay attention to the logic of cause-and-effect relationship.

  6. Make sure that root causes certainly lead to the mistake by reversing the sentences created as a result of the analysis with the use of the expression "and therefore". (I have left everything to last minute therefore I will have alot of work to do)

  7. Try to make our answers more precise.

  8. Look for the cause step by step. Don't jump to conclusions.

  9. Base our statements on facts and knowledge.

  10. Assess the process, not people.

  11. Never leave "human error", "worker's inattention", "blame John", etc. as the root cause.

  12. Foster an atmosphere of trust and sincerity.

  13. Ask the question "Why?" until the root cause is determined, i.e.aolve this and your problem won't happen again

  14. Bonus for business starters- When you form the answer to the question "Why?" it should be from the customer's point of view.


Uses

  • Personally, we use this when covering covering basis while running feasibility studies

  • Can easily be used in determining a business idea, by answering why constantly, you build your drive and can break down faulty or shaky ideas

  • It helps identify the root cause of a problem.

  • Determine the relationship between different root causes of a problem.

  • Can be used in essay writing


I can't buy a new laptop


Why ; because my budget isn't big enough this month

Why ; because my salary is finished and I have no other source of income

Why ; because I havent started a business

Why ; becasue I need help planning

Why ; because I haven't clicked on this link to book a session with The Financial High


*Cough* *Cough* *Cough*


Now go forth and be as inquisitive as you can.



"Curiosity killed the cat, But satisfaction brought it back."






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