Problem Solving

Root Cause Analysis

Runs a real problem through the Five Whys method to find the actual root cause, then proposes three solutions at different time horizons with implementation steps and risks for each.

Best for: Anyone troubleshooting a recurring problem at work who suspects the obvious fix isn't actually fixing anything.

PROMPT Nº 35 OF 37

Help me solve this problem: [DESCRIBE PROBLEM]

PROBLEM DETAILS:

What's happening: [symptoms]
When it started: [timeline]
Who's affected: [people/dept/customers]
What we've tried: [past solutions]
Current impact: [cost/time/quality]

ANALYZE USING 5 WHYS:

Problem: [state it]
Why? [first reason]
Why? [dig deeper]
Why? [deeper still]
Why? [keep going]
Root cause: [the real issue]

Then provide:

Root Cause Summary
3 Potential Solutions (short/med/long term)
For each solution:
- Implementation steps
- Resources needed
- Timeline
- Risks
- Expected outcome
Recommended approach (which solution and why)

Be systematic and thorough.

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