5 WHYS

Have you heard of a tool called the Ishikawa or Fishbone Diagram? It’s one of the 25 we talk about in the Priorities Boot Camp. 

These Fishbone Diagrams are used for identifying root causes when something goes wrong or for anticipating what could go wrong and planning in advance to avoid that. It begins by asking 5 Whys along some main themes, each a branch of the diagram, such as People, Process, Inputs, etc. to build a list of everything that can lead to an outcome. (either a good or bad outcome). For example: What can make an upcoming move to a new hometown not ideal? 

I used it in manufacturing but I like it in life planning too - to help to frame and focus thinking. I also find it really useful for depersonalizing challenging conversations within families or organizations by shifting focus to the details around what can contribute to a successful or unsuccessful move, rather than on disagreement. It can then be used to plan how best to move forward. Here is a sample Fishbone to get you started.

Best wishes,
Rose

PS: The next Priorities Bootcamp is Sep 18 and there is a Special with lots of bonuses for all of you that took the quiz.