Five Whys Analysis

Perform iterative root cause analysis by asking "why" repeatedly until you reach the underlying cause.

Instructions

Start with the stated problem and ask "why" it occurred. For each answer, ask "why" again. Continue until you reach a root cause that:

• Is actionable (you can do something about it)
• Is fundamental (asking "why" further leads to abstract/unhelpful answers)
• Explains the chain of causation

Typically this takes 5 iterations, but may be fewer or more.

Output Format

Problem Statement Restate the problem clearly and specifically.

Why Chain