Why the 5 Whys?

A big part of organizational communication is fixing current problems in an organization and creating solutions and systems of communication that will benefit the organization.

A way to address a problem is to ask a simple, one-word question:  "Why?"

A way to dig deeper into the root of the issue is to ask that same simple, one-word question again. And again and again and again.  (See what I did there..? I asked why 5 times...)

There are always issues and motivations behind a problem that are sometimes hidden until you ask the simple question out loud... Why, do you ask?

Because people don't always communicate before a problem occurs.  Start by breaking down the issue.  Then slowly ask "why" at each phase you reach.  Sometimes, hidden solutions may come to light.  You have to understand the problem before you can fix it. 

A very simple (and silly) example of asking the 5 whys may go a little like this:

A little girl lost her shoe.
Why?
Because her shoelaces were untied.
Why?
Because her classmate pulled them.
Why?
Because she received candy and he didn't.
Why?
Because he talked during class.
Why?
Because he wanted attention.

The 5 whys can apply to everyday life as well (to a certain extent). 

Breathe a little and ask why, why, why, why, why?  I mean, why not ask why?

ashton

 

 

 

*The 5 Whys can be found in The Fifth Discipline Fieldbook