5 Whys Problem Solving

The 5 Whys approach is another problem solving concept which uses a very simple approach in analyzing and getting to the root cause of a problem. The concepts consist of defining the problem in a problem statement and then asking why is this is the case, or why is the problem what it is. This approach also uses brainstorming as an idea generation process to identify potential causes. Once the most immediate cause has been identified and written down, you repeat the process of asking why this cause is the way it is or is caused by what? The process continues for five times or until the root cause has been reached, thus giving it the name 5 whys. An example of a 5Why problem solving exercise:

Problem statement: High salt levels in chicken potatoes snack line

1 Why: Chicken potatoes are flavored by an artificial salty flavoring
2 Why: Chicken flavor salt has lately had a higher salt level
3 Why: Supplier has had higher salt readings in their end product quality testing
4 Why: Supplier could have a fault with salt dosing equipment / Chicken flavoring could be contaminated with residual salts

In the step above (4 why) we have reached two possible causes, in any of the why steps there will sometimes be more than one potential cause. These potential causes should be written down and recorded so that they can be verified after.

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