5 Whys worksheetBuild an evidence-led causal chain. Stop when the cause is verified, not when a box is full.A3 Problem Solving Template
Define one problem, its boundary, the current condition and a measurable target.
What it's for
Use this a3 problem solving template to keep the working record, its evidence and follow-up together. Define one problem, its boundary, the current condition and a measurable target. Use observations and data rather than starting with a preferred solution.
What you can download
The PDF contains the original blank form, followed by a completed fictional example and a separate instructions page. Print only the blank pages for use at work; keep the example and guide as references. The download is free; enter your email to receive a secure link valid for seven days. Product-news consent is optional.
Completed manufacturing example
A bracket burr problem is taken from a measured 15% baseline through a tooling trial, one countermeasure and follow-up evidence. The A3 keeps the reasoning on one landscape sheet.
The baseline is 6 / 40 = 15%; the follow-up is 0 / 120 during the stated review window. That supports the observed improvement, not a guarantee of permanent zero defects.
When to use this template
An A3 is a concise problem-solving record. It does not replace the underlying measurement data, trial evidence or any customer-required 8D response.
Reference guidance: Lean Enterprise Institute: A3 report.
Continue with 5 Whys worksheet, Fishbone diagram, 8D report.
For shared records, evidence and follow-up, explore Bulk quality. Start a free trial to run it live, no card needed.
How to use it
- Define one problem, its boundary, the current condition and a measurable target. Use observations and data rather than starting with a preferred solution.
- Test cause hypotheses and show how each countermeasure addresses a verified cause. Assign implementation ownership and dates.
- Compare follow-up evidence with the original target, record what was learned and update the relevant standard. Review whether similar processes need the change.
Key features
- A3-sized landscape format for comprehensive overview
- Structured sections for background, current state, and problem analysis
- Root cause analysis with fishbone diagram space
- Countermeasures planning with implementation timeline
- Follow-up tracking and standardization sections
- Visual layout promoting concise communication
- Completed fictional example and instructions
Ideal for
- Lean manufacturing teams solving production problems
- Quality engineers investigating recurring defects
- Continuous improvement facilitators leading kaizen events
- Operations managers implementing structured problem-solving
Common uses
- Investigating a recurring defect
- Reducing a measured process delay
- Reviewing a cross-team improvement trial
Related templates.
5 Whys worksheetBuild an evidence-led causal chain. Stop when the cause is verified, not when a box is full.
Fishbone diagramMap possible causes around one defined effect, then test the hypotheses separately.
Kaizen Event TemplateAgree the problem, scope, sponsor, team, baseline and measurable target before the event.Turn the form into a live workflow.
Bulk connects the same checks, evidence, owners and approvals to the work happening on your floor.