5Why's
Understand the root cause of a problem.
- Steps
- 1
- Last edited
- Apr 15, 2024
- Created by
- Nova
About this process
The 5 Whys is a very famous technique used in different fields (ie. coaching, design thinking, research, NLP, etc.) to understand the root cause of a problem. This technique is often used because it is incredibly effective but is also very simple. The Five Whys is a fantastic method to get to the core of a person’s beliefs and motivations. It may feel repetitive, like a four-year-old asking "why" over and over, but sticking with it can lead to valuable insights. During an interview, start with broad questions like "Do you save much money?" or "How was your harvest this year?" Then, ask "why" five times to delve deeper into the answers. This method helps uncover emotional and human aspects of a problem.
The process in detail
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Using this tool. (Internal instructions)
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1. Using this tool. (Internal instructions)
The Five Whys is a fantastic method to get to the core of a person’s beliefs and motivations. It may feel repetitive, like a four-year-old asking "why" over and over, but sticking with it can lead to valuable insights.
During an interview, start with broad questions like "Do you save much money?" or "How was your harvest this year?" Then, ask "why" five times to delve deeper into the answers. This method helps uncover emotional and human aspects of a problem.
Here's how to use it:
🤜1. Start with a broad question about the participant’s habits or behaviors, then ask "why" five times in a row. Use a different sticky note color for each person you interview.
🤨2. Focus on depth, not breadth. Ask questions that probe deeper into the reasons behind their answers.
🔥3. Write down their responses, paying attention to their reactions, exact words, and emotions. Ask follow-up questions like "How does that make you feel?" or "How would this affect your family?" to understand more.
😎4. Keep asking "why" until you reach deeper insights. This might not happen until the fourth or fifth "why."
😵5. After all the interviews, compile your insights and conclusions in the conclusion section.
- What's the challenge? Why is this important now?Who would be affected by the solution?
- Notes & Highlights
- What else didn't you do that you think could be affecting your health? Why? Tell me more about that
- Why do you think so?
- Why do you think so?
- Why?
- Describe the problem and the question. Initial question: How was your health this year?
- This is a sticky note.
- This is a sticky note.