1. The 5 WHYs Analysis Tool The 5 WHY method is a tool used to identify the root cause of an incident or problem. The idea is that you take the initial question, like “WHY did X happen?” and turn the answer into a follow up question, you will eventually find the cause for the issue. If you have ever had a persistent 2 year old ask you “WHY?” repeatedly, you get the idea. 1©2014-2015 HSERsource.com,LLC.

2. The 5 WHYs Analysis Tool Policeman: Why did you run out of gas on the freeway? Driver: Because I didn’t have any money with me. Policeman: Why didn’t you have money with you? Driver: Because I left my wallet at home. Policeman: Why did you leave your wallet at home? Driver: Because I was distracted and in a hurry. Policeman: Why were you distracted and in a hurry? Driver: Because I forgot it was my turn to pick up the kids. Policeman: Why did you forget? Driver: Because I didn’t enter it on my iPhone calendar. 2©2014-2015 HSERsource.com,LLC.

3. The 5 WHYs Analysis Tool Start by stating the problem, then rephrase the answer into a question in the arrow below. Keep answering questions until you find the cause. Why no money? Why out of gas? Because… No money Because… wallet at home 3©2014-2015 HSERsource.com,LLC. Why did you run out of gas?

4. Why… Because… Why does the non- conformity exist? Why… Summarize the non-conformity you are trying to solve. Why… Because… Step 1- Identify the Problem and the Cause 4©2014-2015 HSERsource.com,LLC.

5. Step 2: Propose a solution ProsCons Whose expertise or support will you need to make the plan successful? What would motivate them to buy in to this idea? State Corrective Action Plan (CAP) proposal. 5©2014-2015 HSERsource.com,LLC.

6. Step 3: Develop an Action Plan Next Steps How long will it take? Completion date In Charge 12345678 Problem we are trying to solve: How will we know when it is solved? 6©2014-2015 HSERsource.com,LLC.