Streamline problem-solving with our 5 Why Root Cause Analysis Template, a step-by-step guide to identify, analyze, correct issues and monitor results.
1
Identify the problem
2
Define the problem statement
3
Formulate the first why question
4
Identify and document answers to the first why question
5
Formulate the second why question
6
Identify and document answers to the second why question
7
Formulate the third why question
8
Identify and document answers to the third why question
9
Formulate the fourth why question
10
Identify and document answers to the fourth why question
11
Formulate the final why question
12
Identify and document answers to the final why question
13
Determine if the real root cause has been identified
14
Approval: Identification of root cause
15
Propose corrective action for the root cause
16
Approval: Proposed corrective action
17
Implement the corrective action
18
Monitor the results after implementation
19
Review and document the complete root cause analysis process
Identify the problem
In this task, you will identify and clearly define the problem that needs to be addressed. This is the first step towards finding the root cause of the issue. Think about the impact of the problem on the overall process and the desired outcome of resolving it. Consider any challenges that may arise and how they can be overcome. Use the form field below to provide a description of the problem.
Define the problem statement
Now that you have identified the problem, it's time to define it more precisely. Create a problem statement that clearly expresses the issue and its impact. Think about what needs to be resolved and why. Identify the scope of the problem and any specific details that are important. Use the form field below to provide a problem statement.
Formulate the first why question
In this task, you will formulate the first 'why' question to delve deeper into the root cause of the problem. Think about what factors or events led to the problem and why they occurred. Consider any possible contributing factors or underlying issues. Use the form field below to provide the first 'why' question.
Identify and document answers to the first why question
Now that you have formulated the first 'why' question, it's time to identify and document possible answers. This will help you understand the underlying causes of the problem. Think about different perspectives and sources of information that can provide insights. Consider conducting interviews or research to gather data. Use the form field below to document the answers to the first 'why' question.
Formulate the second why question
Now that you have identified some possible causes, it's time to dig deeper by formulating the second 'why' question. Consider the answers to the first question and think about what led to those causes or factors. Identify any dependencies or relationships between different elements. Use the form field below to provide the second 'why' question.
Identify and document answers to the second why question
Now it's time to identify and document possible answers to the second 'why' question. Reflect on the causes or factors identified from the first question and think about what factors or events contributed to them. Consider different perspectives and gather additional insights. Use the form field below to document the answers to the second 'why' question.
Formulate the third why question
Now that you have explored the previous causes and factors, it's time to formulate the third 'why' question. Think about what led to those factors or events and why they occurred. Identify any deeper underlying issues or root causes. Use the form field below to provide the third 'why' question.
Identify and document answers to the third why question
Now it's time to identify and document possible answers to the third 'why' question. Reflect on the causes or factors identified from the previous questions and think about what factors or events contributed to them. Consider different perspectives and gather additional insights. Use the form field below to document the answers to the third 'why' question.
Formulate the fourth why question
Now that you have explored the previous causes and factors, it's time to formulate the fourth 'why' question. Think about what led to those factors or events and why they occurred. Identify any deeper underlying issues or root causes. Use the form field below to provide the fourth 'why' question.
Identify and document answers to the fourth why question
Now it's time to identify and document possible answers to the fourth 'why' question. Reflect on the causes or factors identified from the previous questions and think about what factors or events contributed to them. Consider different perspectives and gather additional insights. Use the form field below to document the answers to the fourth 'why' question.
Formulate the final why question
Now that you have explored the previous causes and factors, it's time to formulate the final 'why' question. Think about what led to those factors or events and why they occurred. Identify any deeper underlying issues or root causes. Use the form field below to provide the final 'why' question.
Identify and document answers to the final why question
Now it's time to identify and document possible answers to the final 'why' question. Reflect on the causes or factors identified from the previous questions and think about what factors or events contributed to them. Consider different perspectives and gather additional insights. Use the form field below to document the answers to the final 'why' question.
Determine if the real root cause has been identified
In this task, you will evaluate the answers to the 'why' questions and determine if the real root cause has been identified. Consider the completeness and coherence of the answers. Reflect on any additional information or data that may be needed. Use the form field below to provide your evaluation and conclusion.
Approval: Identification of root cause
Propose corrective action for the root cause
Now that you have identified the root cause, it's time to propose corrective actions. Think about practical steps that can be taken to address the root cause and prevent the problem from recurring. Consider any limitations or constraints that may need to be taken into account. Use the form field below to propose corrective action.
Approval: Proposed corrective action
Implement the corrective action
Now it's time to implement the proposed corrective action. Think about the resources and tools that will be required. Consider any potential challenges or risks and plan accordingly. Use the form field below to document the implementation plan.
Monitor the results after implementation
After implementing the corrective action, it's important to monitor the results to ensure they are effective. Think about what metrics or indicators can be used to measure the impact of the action. Consider the frequency and method of monitoring. Use the form field below to document the monitoring plan.
Review and document the complete root cause analysis process
In this final task, you will review and document the complete root cause analysis process. Think about the lessons learned and any improvements that can be made for future reference. Consider the overall effectiveness of the process and its impact on the problem-solving approach. Use the form field below to document your review and reflections.