Module 1: Introduction to 3x5 Whys

Welcome to our Three by Five Why Root Cause Analysis training, an extension of our Five Whys Analysis training.

In this video, we delve deeper into root cause analysis to help you better understand and address complex problems.

00:25 - 00:52
Before we begin, we recommend watching our previous videos, especially the one on problem statements. We'll build upon these concepts. Remember, a good problem statement is essential. Problems are identified by the gap between expected performance and current performance or by the difference between our future goals and the current state. Make your problem statement clear and easy to understand.

01:03 - 01:04
To illustrate these concepts, let's take the example of a dryer shutting off after running for an hour. The problem statement is, "My dryer keeps shutting off after running for more than an hour."

01:05 - 01:05
Our first "Why" is, "Why does the heat sensor shut off the dryer?" Because the heat sensor detects temperatures exceeding 150 degrees and shuts off as a safety measure.

01:05 - 01:05
Now we ask, "Why is the heat sensor detecting temperatures exceeding 150 degrees?" This leads us to investigate issues with hot air escaping through the vents.

01:05 - 01:06
Next, we explore, "Why isn't hot air escaping through the vents?" This inquiry brings our attention to clogged vents.

01:06 - 01:06
And we further inquire, "Why are the vents clogged?" The answer is an excessive buildup of lint inside the ductwork, which is caused by twists, turns, crimps, and other structural issues within the vent system.

01:06 - 01:07
This detailed examination allows us to identify a technical root cause specific to the situation, which is the structural problem in the ductwork. In this case, the dryer needs to be relocated to enable a more direct venting system.

01:07 - 01:08
Technical root causes are very specific and focus on the exact problem occurrence, helping us find precise solutions to resolve the issue. Keep your statements clear, concise, and focused on the specific problem area.

01:08 - 01:08
Remember, don't rush to conclusions, explore all possible branches of causation, and stay within your scope of control. If you find yourself veering into matters beyond your control, you might need to revisit a previous "Why" to uncover actionable solutions.

Thank you for joining us, and we'll continue our exploration of the "Three" in the Three by Five Whys in the next part of this training. Stay tuned for Part 2!