Published 22 May 2023

The Best 5 Whys Software of 2023

5 whys software used by team during 5 whys analysis

What is a 5 Whys Software?

A 5 whys software is a tool used by managers and their teams in conducting a 5 whys analysis to solve problems. With a 5 whys software, you can facilitate effective analysis sessions, foster better team collaboration, and immediately follow through on corrective actions with an effective action plan. As a web and mobile application, it enables your team to use free customizable templates to delve deeper into the root cause of problems and issues in the workplace.

Why is a 5 Whys Tool Important?

The 5 Whys method is a problem-solving tool for identifying and rectifying the root of the problem—when it is done right. A sound 5 whys analysis is crucial to ensuring that the root cause—not just another symptom—of the problem is detected as early as possible and solved for good.

A 5 whys software can help save time, effort, and resources from solving recurring problems. It can also function as a project management tool that increases efficiency with the way teams do things. Listed below are three of the best benefits your team can experience from a 5 whys analysis that’s done right:

  • Implement solutions that actually work to prevent recurrence of the issues.
  • Cultivate a mindset that continuously seeks to solve root causes.
  • Boost employee morale by letting them see that their actions can make a difference.

Key Features

Building a culture of root-cause problem-solving seems to be a daunting task at first, but with the right tools, such as a 5 whys software, your team can efficiently get started. Here are ten different ways to make the most out of a 5 whys analysis tool:

  • Analysis: With a 5 whys template on any mobile device, you and your team are directed on a step-by-step process in determining the root cause of the problem.
  • Data Collection: Supporting documents and/or photo and video evidence can be easily added to your auto-generated report—even before leaving the 5 whys analysis session.
  • Data Organization: Information collected in the 5 whys software is automatically organized into beautiful graphs and can also be filtered by field responses.
  • Corrective and Preventive Action: To-do tasks can be assigned during the 5 whys analysis or as a standalone action upon identifying areas of immediate need, either for correction or prevention.
  • Follow-through: Your team can receive notifications via the mobile app or email when you assign an action to them, so they can remember doing their part in correcting the root cause of the problem.
  • Collaboration: Some 5 whys analysis tools can include a mobile messaging feature, so your teams can discuss the details of corrective action, provide updates, and change its status.
  • Documentation: All reports are safely stored in the 5 whys software, which can be easily accessed by authorized personnel anytime, anywhere.
  • Communication: 5 whys results can be exported as PDF or document files and sent to stakeholders via Gmail, Slack, and other mobile messaging apps.
  • Recordkeeping: Prove compliance with applicable regulations or standards by having an online library of properly-documented corrective actions formed over time.
  • Scheduling: Whenever needed, you can always set a reminder that automates notifications for another 5 whys analysis session with your team, along with the required templates and checklists.

Choosing the Right Software

Now that you know what features and functionalities to look for, it’s time to select a suitable platform that could cater to your business needs. Most 5 whys software are built with robust problem-solving tools plus cause and effect capability, but they often vary in terms of the scope and depth of analyses they allow, along with the platforms they support.

To help you keep track of business risks and choose the best 5 whys software, we have rounded up our top picks:

  • Best for simple and complex 5 whys analyses: SafetyCulture
  • Best for simple 5 whys analysis and visualization: EasyRCA
  • Best for enterprise-level 5 whys analysis: Causelink
  • Best for 5 whys analysis training: EdApp by SafetyCulture
  • Best for 5 whys analysis on risk management systems: Riskonnect

See the table below for a more detailed comparison of our top 5 whys software.

App or Software Free Version Lowest Paid Plan Price Free Trial Web Mobile
SafetyCulture Yes $19* Yes, 30 days Yes Yes
EasyRCA No $2,500 Yes, 7 days Yes No
Causelink No $384 Yes, 14 days Yes Yes**
EdApp by SafetyCulture Yes $1.95* Yes, 30 days Yes Yes
Riskonnect No Custom pricing No Yes No

*price per user, per month
**works for mobile browsers

leizel estrellas safetyculture content specialist

SafetyCulture Content Specialist

Leizel Estrellas

Leizel Estrellas is a content writer and researcher for SafetyCulture. Her academic and professional training as a researcher allows her to write meaningful articles that create a lasting impact. As a content specialist, she strives to promote a culture of safety in the workplace through accessible and reader-friendly content. With her high-quality work, she is keen on helping businesses across industries identify issues and opportunities to improve every day.

Leizel Estrellas is a content writer and researcher for SafetyCulture. Her academic and professional training as a researcher allows her to write meaningful articles that create a lasting impact. As a content specialist, she strives to promote a culture of safety in the workplace through accessible and reader-friendly content. With her high-quality work, she is keen on helping businesses across industries identify issues and opportunities to improve every day.