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Criterion
A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
Paper illustration for Dot Estimation.
Facilitation
Dot Estimation
A 5 Whys working surface connects an observable problem with evidenced causes, marked uncertainty and concrete countermeasures with ownership.
Operations
5 Whys
Paper illustration for Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
Operations
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis
Purposedifferent
For a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together.When size or effort can only be estimated roughly, Dot Estimation condenses the group's experience into a quick range. It turns individual contributions into a visible selection. The result is captured as an Effort Heatmap, Risk Signals, and Discussion Targets.For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description.For a process, product, or service with noticeable failure risks, the method assesses possible failure modes in advance. It directs attention to combinations of occurrence, effect, and detectability.
Complexitydifferent
MediumLowLowHigh
Timedifferent
45-90 min5-20 min15-30 min2-6 h
Participantsdifferent
2-53-202-63-10
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshopWorkshop
Outputdifferent
A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause AnalysisEffort Heatmap, Risk Signals, Discussion TargetsRoot cause notes, CountermeasuresFMEA Table, Risk Priority, Mitigation Actions
Tagsno overlap
LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations
EstimationEffortRisk
Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving
RiskQualityOperationsRoot cause
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