One effective problem-solving tool would be the simple but powerful 5 whys method. A 5 whys template makes it easier for you to systematically analyze a recurring problem so you and your team can handle the core issues rather than just dealing with surface symptoms. With each “why,” you dig deeper, building a clear picture of cause and effect that can lead to meaningful, sustainable solutions.
These 5 Whys templates are structured to be easy to follow–simply fill them out and come up with insights, whether you’re dealing with issues with quality, workflow efficiency, or operational safety.
Essential 5 whys templates
The templates below are customizable, and you can share them as a digital form with team members or print them out as PDF reports:
5 whys template
This template takes you step-by-step through the 5 Whys technique so you can get to the bottom of persistent issues quickly and efficiently. Featuring structured fields for each “why,” it guides you and your team through the investigative process. You can also note down potential causes and supporting details for each layer of questioning. Customize it for each scenario by adding or adjusting the questions. With this adaptable template, you can keep everyone on your team well-informed, making the problem-solving process more streamlined and insightful.5 whys root cause analysis template
If you’re dealing with deep-seated problems, this template enables you to analyze these with accuracy and consistency. It keeps your assessment clear and actionable by breaking down each level of inquiry into dedicated sections, letting you explore various hypotheses and document findings in an organized way. Key features include customizable text fields, an area for documenting actions taken, and optional fields for photos or other supporting evidence, which you can easily modify to match industry requirements or team preferences.
How to set up your own 5 whys template
Creating a 5 whys template in Lumiform is simple and effective, and you can quickly tailor it to your team’s needs. The templates above already come with questions that guide users step-by-step through each “why” layer, but feel free to edit them with the app’s drag-and-drop form builder. You have flexibility with input types, from text responses to photos, so you can visually document issues or capture specific details for added context.
Once your team completes the template, sharing on the app is seamless—collaboration tools let you share it across teams instantly or flag issues for follow-up. The app also lets you generate reports, which you can save and access for future analysis or reviews. Over time, having these reports in Lumiform allows for valuable data analysis, allowing you to spot recurring issues and make better-informed decisions.