Root Cause Analysis Series- Step 2 (Option A): Five Whys

Root cause analysis (RCA) consists of a group of problem-solving methods aiming to uncover the core causes of an identified problem. Once root causes are determined, teams then select appropriate, well-matched solutions based on a number of factors. Conducting a root cause analysis is ideally a collaborative effort among teams, where a variety of tools and strategies are used to facilitate the process of uncovering the root of the identified problem or challenge to be addressed.

There are several methods and associated tools for the process of root cause analysis, each with a unique set of benefits, drawbacks, and situations where its use is more appropriate. The five whys encourages teams to develop a deeper understanding of the problems they face by asking “why?” five times in succession (sometimes more!). It can be completed as a stand-alone activity or as an intermediate step to support completion of the two activities covered in step 2- options B and C.

The steps in this toolkit are:

Step 1: Problem Definition

Step 2: Problem Exploration (An introduction to causal analysis is provided, alongside 3 options for completion)

Step 3: Implementing Solutions

Step 4: Testing Chosen Strategies