Question

Briefly describe the Five Whys technique and give 2 examples

Answer 1

5 Whys technique is a technique used to know the root cause or to know the depth of the problem by asking five 'whys' because a problem has multiple causes for a single issue or problem. This technique helps to determine the cause and effect relationship of the problem. This is a technique to determine the main cause of the problem so that the problem can be solved.

For example 1

'Why' did the machine stop ?

- because a part of the machine stopped working.

Why the part stop working ?

- Because the machine part was broken.

Why it broke ?

- Because of insufficient lubrication  

Why insufficient lubrication?

- Because the oil pump intake was clogged.

Why?

- Because the oil pump doesn't have any filter.

Example 2

Why the employee is late?

- Because he woke up late.

Why he woke up late ?

- because the alarm was not working.

Why?

- because it was broken

Why ?

- He did not check the alarm clock.

Why?

- He forgot to check it last night.