5 Whys – waterfall chart

Slide Content

The PowerPoint slide is designed to illustrate the "5 Whys" analysis method using a waterfall chart format. This method is used to drill down into the details of a problem by repeatedly asking "Why?" to peel away the layers of symptoms, leading to the root cause of a problem. Each of the 5 steps has a different color, suggesting a sequence or flow of logic. For each 'Why', there is an allocated space for the user to provide explanatory text. This structured approach aids in identifying the underlying cause of an issue by iterative questioning.

Graphical Look

• A large, bold title "5 Whys – waterfall chart" is centered at the top of the slide.
• The numbers 1 through 5 are highlighted in individual colored circles, which correspond to the colors of rectangular shapes that extend horizontally, creating a waterfall effect.
• Each rectangle displays the word "WHY" in uppercase letters and provides an empty text box entitled "Your sample text here" for users to input their findings.
• A circular question mark icon is depicted in the top right corner, which likely symbolizes the questioning process inherent in the "5 Whys" method.
• The colors of the shapes range from teal to green, yellow, purple, and blue, creating a visually engaging gradient.
• The slide's design is clean with plenty of white space around the elements, making the content easy to read and the structure clear.

The overall look of the slide is modern and vibrant with a clear hierarchy and flow that guides the viewer through the steps of the problem-solving process. The design is visually appealing and user-friendly, clearly demarcating spaces for user input.

Use Cases

• To lead a problem-solving session, allowing a team to visually track the progression of their analysis.
• In quality management presentations, particularly to show root cause analysis in a clear and step-by-step manner.
• During workshops or training sessions on continuous improvement or lean management methodologies, as a tool to teach the "5 Whys" technique.
• As part of a company meeting or report to communicate the findings of an investigation into a specific issue or failure.