Template

5 Whys Analysis Template

by Ruairi Maccormaic, from the Community

10+

Use this digital 5 Whys Analysis template to run structured root cause analysis and document a 3-legged review: how the defect was produced, why it was not detected, and why the possibility for failure existed. The checklist guides teams through five why questions for production, detection, and systemic failure, adds space for solutions and additional suggestions, and supports digital signatures for completion. Ideal for quality, operations, and cross functional teams seeking a simple, repeatable RCA workflow. Created as a starting point from the SafetyCulture Public Library; confirm suitability for your organization.

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This community page makes available free workplace checklists and templates created by other users within the SafetyCulture community. SafetyCulture has re-published this content and where possible, has credited the original author. SafetyCulture has not verified the accuracy, reliability or suitability of any community content. You agree that your use of any of this content is in accordance with SafetyCulture’s Terms and Conditions.

Template
5 Whys Analysis Template
The 5 Whys Analysis is a simple root-cause analysis method usually practiced by sales and marketing teams. Using this digital 5 whys analysis template can help teams to effectively identify a 3 legged root cause of a problem: how the defect was produced, why the problem was not detected and why the possibility for failure existed. Complete the 5 whys analysis report with digital signatures.
by SafetyCulture
Downloads: 500+
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Template
5 Whys Analysis Template for Root Cause Analysis
Use this digital 5 Whys Analysis template to drive consistent root cause investigations. Capture the specific problem, ask five why questions across three legs—defect production, detection failure, and systemic failure—and document solutions. Standardize reports with fields for date, preparer, location, additional suggestions, and leader sign-off. Suitable for quality, operations, sales, and marketing teams seeking a fast, structured approach to problem solving.
by sanjee pravee, from the Community
Downloads: 10+
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Template
5 Whys Root Cause Analysis Template
Use this 5 Whys template to conduct efficient root cause analysis. Start by defining the problem, then ask why repeatedly to drill down to the underlying cause. Record each why, confirm the root cause, propose corrective actions, and assign tasks to team members. The template includes sections for project details, team manager and participants, problem definition, iterative why prompts, solution planning, completion notes, and signatures. Ideal for continuous improvement, quality, and incident reviews across teams and industries. Created for SafetyCulture, this template is a starting point only and should be adapted to your context.
by Nathan McElroy, from the Community
Downloads: 0
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Template
5 Whys Template for Root Cause Analysis
This 5 Whys template helps teams systematically identify and eliminate the root cause of issues. Start by clearly stating the problem, then ask why up to five times, capturing each response until a root cause is confirmed. Document proposed solutions, assign actions, and record team members and approvals to ensure accountability. Use it across operations, quality, IT, and service workflows to prevent recurrence, improve processes, and support continuous improvement. Adapt the sections to fit your organization.
by Ahmed Hamdy Sayed, from the Community
Downloads: 0
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