Page 34 - Yellow Belt Six Sigma

5 Whys

The 5 Whys is a problem-solving technique used in Six Sigma that involves asking "why" multiple times to uncover the root

cause of a problem. The technique involves asking a series of five "why" questions to get to the underlying cause of the

problem.

Here's an example of how the 5 Whys could be used in Six Sigma:

Problem: A manufacturing company has experienced an increase in customer complaints about product defects.

1.Why are customers complaining about product defects? Because the products are not meeting their expectations.

2.Why are the products not meeting their expectations? Because the products are not meeting the required specifications.

3.Why are the products not meeting the required specifications? Because the manufacturing process is not consistent.
4.Why is the manufacturing process not consistent? Because the machinery is not calibrated properly.

5.Why is the machinery not calibrated properly? Because the maintenance schedule is not being followed consistently.