5 Whys - Getting to the Root Problem

Sometimes the problem we see isn't the problem we need to solve. Determining the difference between real problems and their symptoms can be challenging in a complex system. Asking, "Why?" at least 5 times is a simple tool for getting to the bottom of the issue.

Taiichi Ohno, Former Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Corporation, pioneered the concept of asking 5 whys in the 1950s. "Observe the production floor without preconceptions," he would advise. "Ask ‘why' five times about every matter." Read Full Toyota Traditions Article Here.