5 whys

Definition of 5 whys

5 whys is a problem-solving technique that involves asking “Why?” five times to identify the root cause of an issue.

Pronunciation Spelling

fahyv WAHZ

Example Sentence

After applying the 5 Whys, we were able to address the problem instead of just treating the symptom.

Significance

Understanding the 5 Whys is pivotal for agile practitioners—it’s not just a problem-solving tool; it’s a catalyst for continuous improvement and collaborative success in the agile mindset. Too often, teams find themselves mired in addressing symptoms, leading to frustration and stagnation. The 5 Whys breaks this cycle by delving into the root cause. By involving diverse perspectives, the technique sheds light on the genuine problem. Solving these real issues transforms the team’s outlook, fostering a sense of genuine progress and invigorating morale. In essence, the 5 Whys isn’t merely a tool; it’s a transformative journey toward lasting agile success.

Additional Resources

• 5 Whys: The Ultimate Root Cause Analysis Tool
• The Most Common Project Blockers And Ways To Eliminate Them
• [Extreme Programming Explained: Embrace Change][163]
• [Practical Kanban: From Team Focus to Creating Value][197]