What is the primary purpose of the five whys technique?

The primary purpose of the five whys technique is to explore cause-and-effect relationships of a problem. This method involves asking "why" repeatedly—typically five times—to drill down into the root cause of an issue. By systematically questioning the reasons behind a problem, individuals can uncover the underlying factors that contribute to it, rather than just addressing superficial symptoms. This helps ensure that solutions are targeted towards the actual causes of the problem, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

The other options, while related to problem-solving, do not capture the essence of the five whys technique. Brainstorming solutions focuses on generating ideas rather than delving into causality. Establishing a timeline for problem-solving pertains to planning and organization, and identifying team roles in a project is about project management rather than understanding the elements that lead to a specific issue. These aspects can be important in a broader context of problem-solving, but they do not align with the specific aim of the five whys method.