The only way to solve a difficult problem is to resolve its root causes
The question ‘Why?’ can be a powerful ‘problem finding’ technique especially if asked at least five times repetitively. Using only the ‘Why?’ question can enable people to get closer to the ‘problem-behind-the-problem’. An example exploring the real causes behind a machine malfunction is shown below.
Using the ‘Why?’ question followed each time by a “What possibilities does the answer elicit?” question, can lead to the generation of a richer perspective of possibilities, solutions and ideas from each ‘Why?’ question.