Understanding the "5 Whys" Methodology
"5 Whys" technique, a powerful tool for root cause analysis developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of Toyota
Hacking for Defense is a graduate-level course focused on defense tech entrepreneurship taught at more than 70 colleges and universities across three continents. More than 2,000 students have successfully completed the intensive project-based program. The following blog by Jeffrey Decker, PhD, a social science research scholar, program director of the Hacking for Defense course and managing director of Tech Transfer for Defense with the Precourt Institute for Energy at Stanford University.
The Hacking for Defense (H4D) program at Stanford University is designed to equip students with innovative problem-solving skills by tackling real-world defense and national security challenges. One of the key methodologies employed in this program is the "5 Whys" technique, a powerful tool for root cause analysis developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of Toyota. This technique is not only simple but extremely effective in peeling back the layers of symptoms to reveal underlying issues.
Understanding the "5 Whys" Methodology
The "5 Whys" involves asking the question "Why?" five times in succession to drill down into the specifics of a problem, ultimately uncovering the foundational cause. This approach is particularly useful when paired with the task of developing beneficiary archetypes, as it helps to ensure that the solutions are tailored and truly address the needs of the end users.
Step-by-Step Application
Identify a Pain Point: Start with a clear pain point observed in your current workflow or a specific issue faced by beneficiaries.
First Why: Ask why this pain point exists. This first answer will lead you to the next question.
Example: "Why did the robot stop?"
Answer: "The circuit has overloaded, causing a fuse to blow."
Second Why: Based on the first answer, ask why that condition or event occurred.
Example: "Why is the circuit overloaded?"
Answer: "There was insufficient lubrication on the bearings, so they locked up."
Third Why: Continue the process to further uncover the chain of causation.
Example: "Why was there insufficient lubrication on the bearings?"
Answer: "The oil pump on the robot is not circulating sufficient oil."
Fourth Why: Dig deeper into the mechanical or process failures that led to the issue.
Example: "Why is the pump not circulating sufficient oil?"
Answer: "The pump intake is clogged with metal shavings."
Fifth Why: Identify the final root cause.
Example: "Why is the intake clogged with metal shavings?"
Answer: "Because there is no filter on the pump."
Integrating Insights into the Value Proposition Canvas
If teams find themselves struggling with the Value Proposition Canvas, the insights gained from the "5 Whys" can be invaluable. By understanding the deep-rooted problems, teams can better define the value propositions that are most relevant to their beneficiaries. This ensures that the solutions developed are not just innovative but are also directly addressing the core needs of the users.
In the context of H4D, the "5 Whys" isn't just about finding answers. It's about fostering a mindset of deep inquiry, pushing past superficial understanding, and getting to the heart of what really matters for defense and national security innovations. When you find yourself stuck at any stage of the "5 Whys," consider this a critical learning point, possibly warranting further exploration through beneficiary interviews or additional research. This method not only sharpens the focus on the beneficiary's perspective but also enhances the overall strategic approach to solving complex challenges.
To learn more about the H4D course at Stanford University, visit h4d.stanford.edu; to learn more about H4D around the world, visit h4d.us. To read excerpts of the NEW upcoming H4D textbook, subscribe to the H4D Stanford Substack at stanfordh4d.substack.com.