5 Whys Template
Analyze and understand the root of a problem or issue with the 5 Whys template. Create the conditions for creative solutions.
About the 5 Whys Template
The 5 Whys framework is a simple yet effective tool for problem-solving. The technique is based on the idea that by asking "why" five times in a row, one can uncover the root cause of a problem. This consistent questioning approach can help to pinpoint the essence of a problem, which can lead to practical solutions.
The 5 Whys template is a structured visual representation of this technique, designed to guide a systematic exploration of problems. The template includes a central problem area at the top, followed by five other sections labeled from "Why 1" to "Why 5." Each section is dedicated to exploring the consecutive layers of causes linked to the central issue. To use the template, start by stating the initial problem and then progressively address each "why" until the root cause is identified.
How to use the 5 Whys template effectively
Follow these simple steps:
Identify the problem: Start by writing down the main problem or concern you are investigating in the designated area.
Use sticky notes for whys: For every subsequent "why," use sticky notes to jot down the underlying cause associated with the previous layer or statement.
Iterate until the end: Continue this process down the branches until you reach the fifth "why" or you have identified the root cause.
Add contextual artifacts: To give a deeper understanding, you can drag and drop any relevant artifacts (documents, images, links) onto the board adjacent to your "whys." With just a few clicks, the template can be easily edited to suit the specific needs of your investigation, making it a versatile tool for various scenarios.
Why should you use a 5 Whys template?
A 5 Whys template is a powerful tool that can be used to identify the root cause of an issue. It is a structured approach that provides a systematic method to address problems, ensuring that no aspect is overlooked. The template offers a visual representation that fosters collaborative brainstorming and team-based problem-solving.
Here are some key reasons why you should consider using a 5 Whys template:
Root cause analysis: The 5 Whys template effectively uncovers the root cause of issues rather than just addressing superficial symptoms. By asking "why" at least five times, you can identify the underlying cause of a problem and develop a solution that addresses it directly.
Collaborative problem-solving: The visual nature of the template makes it easy to engage in collaborative discussions and team-based problem-solving. It encourages everyone to share their ideas and perspectives, which can lead to a more comprehensive and effective solution.
Structured approach: The template provides a structured approach to problem-solving, ensuring that you follow a logical process and consider all relevant factors. This can help prevent overlooking important details or making hasty decisions.
Versatility: The 5 Whys template can be used in various scenarios, from business processes to personal introspection. It is a versatile tool that can be adapted to suit your specific needs and goals.
Documentation and reference: By using the template, you create a record of your analysis that can be referred to in the future or shared with stakeholders. This can help you track your progress and demonstrate the effectiveness of your problem-solving efforts.
5 Whys template example
Let's say you're trying to ship an app that your team has been working on. You were prepared to ship on time, but you ended up delivering the app two days overdue.
Here's how you might use the 5 Whys template to uncover the reason that happened and how you can avoid delays in the future.
Step 1:
Start with the broadest possible question, then try to answer it.
Example: Why was the app late? It was late because there was a production delay.
Step 2:
Based on this answer, you can narrow the question slightly.
Example: Why was there a production delay? There was a production delay because the engineering team had to deploy a last-minute patch, which the product team did not know about until launch day.
Step 3:
Narrow the question even further, and then answer it.
Example: Why didn't the product team know about the patch? The product team didn't know about the patch because engineering didn't communicate it to them.
Step 4:
Keep narrowing and answering the question.
Example: Why didn't the engineering team communicate to the product team? The engineering team didn't communicate with the product team because they did not know how to communicate that information.
Step 5:
Ask the question one last time to zero in on your solution.
Example: Why didn't the engineering team know how to communicate with the product team? The engineering team didn't know how to communicate with the product team because the product team had no clear point of contact or processes for communication.
Is the 5 Whys technique limited to only five questions?
No, the number "5" in the 5 Whys is more a guideline than a strict rule. If you find the root cause before reaching the fifth "why", you can stop. Conversely, if it requires more than five iterations to get to the core issue, continue asking.
Can I change the template to suit my needs?
Absolutely. The template is designed to be flexible. If you need additional sections or want to make stylistic changes, you can easily do so.
Is it possible to use the 5 Whys for personal introspection?
Yes, while commonly used in business and manufacturing, the 5 Whys can be a valuable tool for personal growth and introspection.
How important is collaboration when using the 5 Whys template?
While you can use the 5 Whys individually, collaboration often provides diverse perspectives, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.
Get started with this template right now.
Mood Board Template
Works best for:
Design, Brainstorming, Ideation
When you’re kicking off a creative project, it’s sometimes important to communicate the mood you’re trying to evoke — but it’s so hard to do it with words. So create a mood board and use images, color palettes, textures, and typography. Mood boards are also perfect for gathering inspiration and sketching out and pitching ideas, and they’re not just for designers — your content writers, sales teams, and product teams can use them too, and this template makes it easy for all of you to get started.
Lesson Reflection Template
Works best for:
Education, Meetings
The Lesson Reflection template is a tool to create space for self-reflection and improvement. Students can evaluate the key takeaways from a lesson and what are the topics they find most interesting. As teachers receive the student’s Lesson Reflection, they can look for opportunities to improve learning and teaching methodologies. The Lesson Reflection template can help you facilitate the educational process, and it’s easy to use and straightforward.
UX Research Plan Template
Works best for:
Market Research, Desk Research, User Experience
A research plan communicates the fundamental information that stakeholders need to understand about a user experience research project: who, what, why, and when. The plan ensures everyone is aligned and knows what they must do to make the UX research project a success. Use the research plan to communicate background information about your project; objectives; research methods; the scope of the project, and profiles of the participants. By using a UX research plan, you can achieve stakeholder buy-in, stay on track, and set yourself up for success.
KWL Chart Template
Works best for:
Education, Brainstorming, Retrospectives
Sharing and learning new knowledge is the fuel in the tank of any ambitious team or organization. A KWL chart is a graphical organizer that powers the learning process. This easy template lets you design and use a KWL, with three columns: Know, Want to Know, and Learned. Then you and your team will fill in each column by following three steps: Take stock of what you know, document what you want to get out of your session, and finally, record what you’ve learned.
Online Sketching Template
Works best for:
UX Design, Desk Research, Design Thinking
Before you go full steam ahead with a promising idea, look at it from a high level — to know how it functions and how well it meets your goals. That’s what sketches do. This template gives you a powerful remote collaboration tool for the initial stages of prototyping, whether you’re sketching out web pages and mobile apps, designing logos, or planning events. Then you can easily share your sketch with your team, and save each stage of your sketch before changing it and building on it.
Entity Relationship Diagram Template
Works best for:
Flowcharts, Strategic Planning, Diagrams
Sometimes the most important relationships in business are the internal ones—between the teams, entities, and actors within a system. An entity relationship diagram (ERD) is a structural diagram that will help you visualize and understand the many complex connections between different roles. When will an ERD come in handy? It’s a great tool to have for educating and onboarding new employees or members of a team, and our template makes it so easy to customize according to your unique needs.