THE 5 WHYS TECHNIQUE

PURPOSE:
The purpose of this appendix is to explore the cause/effect relationships underlying the
problems in Nintendo. Ultimately, the goal of applying the 5 Whys technique is to determine the
root cause of the problem.
SOURCE & METHODOLOGY:
Sources:
Methodology:
1. Applied the 5 Whys to approach the root cause of the problem
2. Reapplied at different starting points to ensure we are on the right track
3. Surface assumptions based on 5 whys
HIGHLIGHTS & IMPLICATIONS:
After implementing the 5 Whys Technique, we were able to see that the main cause of the
problem was a lack of sustainable supply chain. The 5 Whys technique was applied twice from
different points to ensure that we were on the right problem statement. It was useful for
confirming our assumptions and hypothesis that Nintendo required a sustainable supply chain to
compete on the market. This was crossed reference from the second attempt of applying the 5
Whys because it confirms the value that Nintendo could gain from becoming leaders in
sustainability. From that point, we were able to get closer to a solution that Nintendo could action
that would enable them to become a leader in sustainability.