What is the “five whys” approach intended for?

The "five whys" approach is a problem-solving technique primarily used to identify the root cause of an issue. This method involves asking "why" repeatedly—typically five times—until the underlying cause of a problem is uncovered. By focusing on the root cause rather than just symptoms, organizations can implement more effective solutions that address the actual issue, preventing its recurrence.

The effectiveness of this approach lies in its simplicity and ability to encourage deeper thinking about problems instead of merely addressing surface-level issues. It is widely utilized in various fields, particularly in quality improvement initiatives and project management, to enhance processes and outcomes.