The 5 Why Analysis

THE 5 WHY ANALYSIS

The 5 Why Analysis can be a very simple and effective tool to identify the Root Cause of an Engineering, IT or Manufacturing issue. In many cases a “quick fix” or a temporary band aid solution can be used, but that may not address the Root Cause of the issue, which will keep coming back, until permanently rectified.

The Root Cause needs to be identified. However, identifying the Root Cause may not be simple and in many cases the Root Cause may not be immediately obvious. The 5 Why Analysis is a very powerful and valuable tool which can be used to identify the basic Root Cause of a problem or issue.

In simple terms – the methodology involves asking and answering basic, cascading questions.
The answer for each question forms the basis of the next question.

 

FOR EXAMPLE:- Apply the 5 Why Analysis to this issue:-

The Problem – “I have not completed my work”

• Question – Why have you not completed your work – Answer – because my computer will not turn on
• Question – Why will your computer not turn on – Answer – because the battery is flat
• Question – Why is the battery flat – Answer – because I did not put the computer on charge
• Question – Why did you not put it on charge – Answer – because I forgot
• Question – Why did you forget – Answer – because I was tired and went to bed without thinking about it

 

The root cause was that – I was tired and went to bed without thinking about it

And note that at each stage – there also may be opportunity for ancillary direction.
e.g. Could you have used a cable to power the computer?  And this could lead to a whole new series of questions. Depending on how deep you want to go.

Obviously this is a very simple overview of the process

 

Not Only – But Also

• Open List Of Topics – Engineering Nostalgia for pages of Old Engineer Memories
• Regardless of your current status – always ask the question – Is there a Better Way and
  visit the 3R web page for an overview of the 3R Philosophy     Review – Refresh – Reset
• Challenge yourself and your colleagues with an Engineering Quiz
• Whenever possible – always follow the KISS Principle
• Check out Engineering Odd Bits for odd subject matter – including humor and comment