When to use it
Use it when a problem keeps recurring and quick fixes have not stuck.
How to apply it
- Write the problem as one specific, observable statement.
- Ask why it happened and record the answer based on evidence, not opinion.
- Ask why again of that answer, repeating roughly five times or until you reach a fixable cause.
- Check the chain by reading it backwards with 'therefore' between each link.
- Agree an action that addresses the root cause and set a date to confirm it worked.
Tip: Problems often have several causes, so branch the chain rather than forcing a single line.