What is the WWWWHHW board?
The WWWWHHW (5W2H) is a simple yet very effective problem solving method. It accurately and exhaustively diagnoses a situation or a problem.
During a brainstorming session using the WWWWHHW method, answer the following questions:
- What is the problem?
- Who is involved?
- Where does it happen?
- When is this problem triggered? How often does it occur? How long does it last?
- How does this issue take place?
- How much does it cost in terms of means, material and equipment?
- Why is this problem happening?
Why is a WWWWHHW board used?
We use a WWWWHHW board to understand a phenomenon, a behavior or when we want to give meaning to an event. This method enables a detailed analysis of the situation. The systematic questioning addresses the problem to solve from all angles and shifts focus and opens up the field of possible solutions. In the context of problem solving, the WWWHHW is used immediately after choosing the problem to be addressed. It is then used to look for root causes.
Who uses a WWWWHHW board?
The WWWWHHW method is very useful for analyzing, mapping and defining a problem. It can also be used for:
- Facilitating a meeting
- Conducting a brainstorming session
- Defining an action plan
- Drawing up a project
- Writing minutes of a meeting
- Managing people, particularly in the context of conflict management
- Prospecting
How to set up a WWWWHHW board in iObeya?
To easily organize a WWWWHHW problem solving exercise in iObeya:
- Enter your room, then click Configure the room at the bottom right of the screen.
- Add a blank board to your room.
- Select the WWWWHHW background from the background catalog.
- Create a new set of Notes and rename them What, Who, Where, When, How, How Much, Why.
- Your board is now ready to be used.
Pro Tips on how to set up a WWWWHHW board
When you finish conducting the WWWWHHW exercise with your team, transfer the information to an iObeya Problem Solving Card. The second tab is dedicated to the WWWWHHW method. Continue the exercise by compiling the remaining table (5 whys and Actions).
