Definition
A logical analysis tool used in quality improvement techniques in order to guarantee that a problem or topic under discussion is analyzed taking a complete view of all its essential aspects: Who, What, Where When, Why, How.
‘I keep six honest serving men
They taught me all I know
Their names are WHAT and WHY and WHEN and HOW and WHERE and WHO’
From ‘Just So Stories’ by Rudyard Kipling
Method of application
The 5 whys help to understand a situation each time new stimuli are necessary. They help to focus on key problems.
These questions can be used at several levels according to the level of inquiry to be achieved.
After answering the question a “cloud” of items should be available. It is then possible to write down a concise situation statement which can guide in further processes with the purpose to communicate clearly the situation at hand.
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