Which analysis method involves asking "why" until the root cause is identified?

The Five Whys analysis method is a problem-solving technique that focuses on identifying the root cause of an issue by repeatedly asking the question "why." This iterative questioning continues until the fundamental cause is revealed, encouraging deep thinking and thorough investigation. The strength of this method lies in its simplicity and effectiveness: it can often lead to insights that more complex analysis methods might overlook or complicate.

By using this technique, it promotes a straightforward approach to problem resolution, helping teams understand not just the symptoms but the true drivers behind a problem. This depth of inquiry is essential for addressing issues effectively and implementing long-lasting solutions. In contrast, other methods like fault analysis may categorize problems differently, fishbone analysis organizes causes and effects visually, and process mapping focuses on documenting workflows rather than probing for root causes.