Discover a structured approach to isolate a challenge's root cause with our "5 Whys Root Cause Analysis Template". Uncover, assess, and rectify complex issues.
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Identify the problem that needs to be resolved
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Describe the problem in detail
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Approval: Problem Description
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Ask the first why to identify the cause
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Record the first cause
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Approval: First Cause
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Ask the second why
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Record the second cause
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Ask the third why
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Record the third cause
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Ask the fourth why
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Record the fourth cause
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Ask the fifth why
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Record the fifth cause
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Approval: Fifth Cause
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Evaluate whether the true root cause has been identified
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Approval: Root Cause Evaluation
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Develop an action plan to resolve the root cause
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Implement the action plan to address the root cause
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Monitor and assess the effectiveness of the action plan
Identify the problem that needs to be resolved
In this task, you will identify the problem that needs to be resolved. Consider the impact of the problem on the overall process and the desired results. Reflect on any challenges that may arise and their potential remedies. Determine the required resources or tools to resolve the problem.
Describe the problem in detail
In this task, you will provide a detailed description of the problem. Elaborate on its causes, effects, and any relevant background information. Consider using headings, bullet points, or diagrams to make your description clear and organized.
Approval: Problem Description
Will be submitted for approval:
Describe the problem in detail
Will be submitted
Ask the first why to identify the cause
In this task, you will ask the first 'why' to identify the cause of the problem. Consider the different factors that may contribute to the problem and ask probing questions to uncover the underlying cause.
Record the first cause
In this task, you will record the first cause that you have identified. Provide a clear and concise description of the cause.
Approval: First Cause
Will be submitted for approval:
Record the first cause
Will be submitted
Ask the second why
In this task, you will ask the second 'why' to further investigate the cause of the problem. Delve deeper into the factors and relationships that may contribute to the cause.
Record the second cause
In this task, you will record the second cause that you have identified. Provide a detailed and informative description of the cause.
Ask the third why
In this task, you will ask the third 'why' to continue exploring the cause of the problem. Analyze any patterns or trends that may emerge from the previous causes.
Record the third cause
In this task, you will record the third cause that you have identified. Clearly explain how this cause contributes to the problem.
Ask the fourth why
In this task, you will ask the fourth 'why' to uncover additional factors that may contribute to the cause of the problem. Consider any interdependencies or external influences that may be at play.
Record the fourth cause
In this task, you will record the fourth cause that you have identified. Provide supporting evidence or examples for this cause, if applicable.
Ask the fifth why
In this task, you will ask the fifth 'why' to further investigate the cause of the problem. Explore any underlying assumptions or root causes that may have been missed in the previous steps.
Record the fifth cause
In this task, you will record the fifth cause that you have identified. Summarize the key findings from the previous 'why' questions and articulate the root cause of the problem.
Approval: Fifth Cause
Will be submitted for approval:
Record the fifth cause
Will be submitted
Evaluate whether the true root cause has been identified
In this task, you will evaluate whether the true root cause of the problem has been identified. Consider any alternative explanations or potential contributing factors that may need to be further explored.
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Yes
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No
Approval: Root Cause Evaluation
Will be submitted for approval:
Evaluate whether the true root cause has been identified
Will be submitted
Develop an action plan to resolve the root cause
In this task, you will develop an action plan to resolve the root cause of the problem. Consider the specific steps and strategies that need to be implemented to address the root cause.
Implement the action plan to address the root cause
In this task, you will implement the action plan to address the root cause of the problem. Clearly outline the tasks, responsibilities, and timelines for each step of the action plan.
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Task 1
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Task 2
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Task 3
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Task 4
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Task 5
Monitor and assess the effectiveness of the action plan
In this task, you will monitor and assess the effectiveness of the action plan implemented to address the root cause. Consider the metrics or indicators that will be used to measure success and any adjustments that may need to be made based on the evaluation.