Chapter 4: Choosing the Right Tool | Mastering Problem Solving Toolkit
These proven tool sequences cover the most common problem-solving scenarios. Use them as starting points and adapt based on your situation.
Combination A — The Standard Deep Dive Most common sequence
5W2H→5 Whys→Pareto→PDCA
Use when: A recurring problem needs full investigation. Start by gathering facts (5W2H), then dig to root cause (5 Whys), confirm the biggest cause (Pareto), and implement/track the fix (PDCA).
Combination B — The Complex Cause Map Multiple possible causes
5W2H→Fishbone Diagram→5 Whys→Decision Matrix
Use when: Many potential causes exist. Fishbone helps you see all categories; 5 Whys drills into the confirmed cause; Decision Matrix helps pick the best fix.
Combination C — The Priority Sprint Multiple problems, limited time
Priority Matrix→Pareto→5 Whys→PDCA
Use when: You have a backlog of problems. First rank by impact/ease (Priority Matrix), then confirm biggest contributor (Pareto), then solve with 5 Whys + PDCA.
Combination D — The Safety/Quality Investigation High-risk failures
5W2H→Fault Tree Analysis→Fishbone→8D Report
Use when: A safety incident, product recall, or critical quality failure requires thorough documentation and corrective action for regulatory or customer purposes.
Combination E — The Innovation Cycle Process improvement / new solutions
SWOT→Brainstorming→SCAMPER→Decision Matrix→DMAIC
Use when: Looking to redesign a process or develop an innovative solution, not just fix a defect. SWOT provides context; Brainstorming + SCAMPER generate options; Decision Matrix selects; DMAIC implements.