So in this example the negligence of the inventory control manager was the root cause from the looks of it. If you were to go one level further with the why, it would properly become clear that is due there is no system in place to order new ink when stock levels are low.<\/p>\n

Now in order to solve the issue above you would need to implement a system that trigger an order of material when they get to a certain level. The quick solution many would wrongly take is only to order new paint and produce the order, as the issue would occur again next time the ink runs out.<\/p>\n

The Process Steps of Five Whys<\/h2>\n

Five Whys is a simple process that involves the following steps:<\/p>\n

\n
1. Form a team<\/strong>: First of all, gather all the affected people who are well aware of the details of the problem and the process that needs to be fixed.<\/li>\n
2. Select a Team facilitator<\/strong>: Next step is to select a team facilitator who can investigate and supervise the team in the identification process.<\/li>\n
3. Write down the problem<\/strong>: Write down the simple and concise problem statement after discussing with the team members. Like in the above example the problem statement is: \u201cCustomer refused to pay because they are unhappy with the product.\u201d<\/li>\n
4. Ask Why 5 times<\/strong>: Ask the first why that why this problem happened? The answers should be based on facts and logics, not on guesses. This requires deep thinking into the matter and potentially data analysis to find out the logical reasons. Note down all the answers by the team members on side of the respective why in pithy and concise phrases rather than full sentences.<\/li>\n
5. Find and discuss the root cause<\/strong>: If you do not find a logical answer to a why, that means you have reached the root cause and then address it to the team members and take their opinions and consent.<\/li>\n
6. Counter Measures<\/strong>: Find out all the corrective measures that can be taken to overcome the underlying root cause and discuss with the team members.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

   Five whys method can easily be conducted for simple problems. However, for complex and critical problems it needs to be handled carefully. For such complex cases a Fishbone Diagram<\/a> may be required prior to the 5 whys, as it helps to analyze the problem through a broader perspective.<\/p>\n<\/div>

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