A straightforward explanation of root cause analysis and systems thinking, illustrating, with real-world examples and first-hand accounts, why things can 'slip through our fingers' and what to do to reduce the chances of things going off track. Beyond the Five Whys summarises, for the first time, many of the tried and tested ways of understanding problems using insights from aviation, high reliability organisations and a range of thought-provoking sources. The book provides readers with a clear and structured explanation how to analyse setbacks and head off problems in the first place. It will challenge much of the received wisdom, such as the idea there can be one root cause or that a person or bad culture could be a root cause. Specific areas covered: * Learn what root causes are, how they differ from immediate and contributing causes and why it's so important to go beyond the Five Whys technique for root cause analysis. * Recalibrate the way you think about things going wrong, incorporating insights from systems thinking, so you can be clearer what 'cultural' or systemic problems mean in practice. * Learn about the eight principal ways things can slip through our fingers. * Go beyond the blame game and firefighting to avoid the never ending cycle of repeating issues. * Strengthen your ability to read the output of a 'lessons learned' or enquiry report. * Get a fresh perspective, using these techniques, on why the Titanic tragedy turned out so badly, and understand the numerous parallels between what happened then and a range of recent setbacks we have seen, such as the Covid 19 pandemic. * Consider the broader application of these techniques to some of the challenges we face in the 21st century. Beyond the Five Whys also contains supplemental guidance how to make improvements in an organisation. It is of value to business managers and those in specialist roles such as GRC, ESG, risk, compliance, quality, project management, H&S, IT, and internal audit roles.

Praise for Beyond the Five Whys

"James uses a combination of real-life stories and best practice insights to present a practical approach to root cause analysis that will help shift your mindset to unleash the power of being more curious."
-Damian Finio, CFO Phibro Animal Healthcare Corporation

"As the world becomes ever more complex and fast paced it is imperative that we become outstanding at learning from experience. Somehow, we must get beyond blame and shame when examining why things go wrong. Otherwise, we will just repeat, and probably make bigger mistakes."
-Andrew Pal CEng, FIMechE (Leadership Coach and Organisation Consultant)

"James Paterson, a former Chief Audit Executive, tackles a topic of immense importance across all organizational sectors. The book also includes practical guidance from leaders in business, risk and audit."
-Nancy Haig, CIA, CBA, CFE, CRISC, Principal - PIAC LLC

"Through clear explanations and real-world examples, readers will learn how to systematically identify root causes and develop effective solutions that address the underlying problems. This book is a valuable resource that professionals can read and start to apply to improve their problem-solving skills and make a positive impact within their organizations. Highly recommend!"
-Sandeep Das - Head of Internal Audit, St John Ambulance