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5 Whys Framework

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Concept explanation

Our lives are full of problems. There are one-off tiny unpleasant surprises, but there are also problems we face repeatedly and nasty problems we never want to repeat.

When this happens, it is crucial to understand how to avoid having this problem again. And there is a way.

The 5 Whys Framework is a tool that helps you get to the core of any problem by asking 5 consecutive whys. This framework is great for use in your presentations to expand context and help you visually communicate the core issue that needs attention.

Example of 5 Whys Framework:

Problem: You have not been promoted
First why: You can't prove your value to direct and senior management
Second why: You can't execute your brilliant ideas
Third why: Resources and support of the company are given to other teams
Fourth why: Other teams can better communicate and sell ideas
Fifth why: Other teams use Deckster Presentation Copilot

The 5 Whys Framework was developed and perfected within the Toyota Motor Corporation as a critical tool for problem-solving. Taiichi Ohno, the architect of the Toyota Production System, describes the method in his book Toyota Production System: Beyond Large-Scale Production.

Use-cases

Identifying the root cause of the problem you want to solve

When the problem is identified and you want to solve it, you will need resources to implement the solution. You will pitch your idea to the decision-makers to secure resources. In a positive scenario, you get the resources and implement the solution. But what if it doesn't work? You will have trouble securing resources again. To make sure this never happens, use "5 Whys" to identify the root cause, that way you will ensure your idea will succeed.

Aligning the audience when pitching a solution to a problem

Often people might see the problem from different angles and levels. That leads to disagreement on what and how to solve. When pitching your solution to the problem, "5 Whys" might be extremely useful to make sure everyone is on the same page, i.e., your target audience understands what needs to be fixed. This will help you ensure your idea is supported.

How to use

First, define if you need to use the 5 Whys Framework at all. If the problem you are facing is insignificant and appears for the first time, it may not be worth using this framework. However, if the problem is far from insignificant and/or repeats many times, it is worth the "5 Whys".

Identify people who are exposed to the problem and involve them in the thinking process (skip if you decide to work solo).

Clearly define the problem.

Ask the first why.

Keep asking why until you hit the root cause (it could be 3, 5, or more times).

When the root cause is identified, think of countermeasures, or raise awareness among other teams and departments who have better conditions to implement solutions.

Suggestions from Deckster

You can work with the 5 Whys Framework individually, but it is most effective when done in collaboration with people who are facing this problem in their day-to-day jobs.

The 5 Whys Framework uses "countermeasures," rather than "solutions." A countermeasure is an action or set of actions that seek to prevent the problem from happening again, while a solution may just seek to deal with the symptom. Countermeasures are solutions on steroids that will more likely prevent the problem from recurring.

The number "5" in the 5 Whys Framework is more of a guideline than a strict rule. If you find the root cause before reaching the 5th "why", you can stop. Conversely, if it requires more than five iterations to get to the root cause, keep going.