In business, root cause analysis is critical. The "5 Whys" technique was successfully pioneered at Toyota Motor Corporation to determine the true, underlying reason for a problem. Like many of the best peak performance techniques, it is deceptively simple. Simply ask the question "Why" five times, each time drilling down to a new level of clarity. Five iterations is usually sufficient to identify the true underlying cause of any business problem.
An example from business:
1. The customer has filed a complaint - WHY?
2. They are being sent unsolicited mailshots - WHY?
3. The IT system does not flag them as "opting-out" - WHY?
4. Human error in updating their mailshot preference options - WHY?
5. Inadequate staff training on data protection maintenance.
Of course the series of questions could continue for much longer in many cases, until the ultimate root cause is reached.
Applying this in your life
Have fun applying the 5 Whys approach to issues in your life. Deployed correctly, this approach is like a laser beam, clarifying and cutting through problems with relentless accuracy. There is a root cause behind every outcome in your personal and professional life. Find it.
(c) WestOcean 2008
