A3 Problem-Solving is a structured problem-solving approach derived from A3 Thinking, developed by Toyota. The approach gets its name from the A3 paper size (11.7 by 16.5 inches) used to document the problem-solving process. A3 Problem-Solving follows a series of systematic steps to address and resolve issues efficiently:
- Background: here, the author documents any contextual information relevant to understanding the extent and the importance of solving the problem. For a business context, it is essential to clearly explain how the problem to solve relates to the company’s goals. It is also crucial to adapt the information there to the expected audience.
- Current Situation (or Current Condition): I recommend showing quantitative data about the current performance, such as process maps or metrics. Visual representations like charts or tables are instrumental. Sharing the “Current Situation” is about conveying an understanding grounded in facts regarding the business problem.
- Goal (or Target): it means a measurable objective, starting from the current performance. Setting a goal here is about acknowledging the success at the end of the problem-solving.
- Root Cause Analysis: it is about investigating until explicitly revealing the source of the problem. To find the root causes without ambiguity, the author may use different approaches like the 5 Why’s.
- Countermeasures (or Recommendations): they are an outline of straightforward actions to address all the previously identified root causes. Here, we need each action’s owner, target date, and local result.
- Results (or Effect Confirmation): this section is related to the “check” we have in the PDCA. Here, we see the extent of any remaining part of the problem compared to the Current Situation. It is the answer to the question: did we eliminate the problem?
- Follow-up actions: this part reflects our “Act” step in a PDCA. The author has to be clear on any additional modifications to implement. It is also about expliciting any actions to sustain the achieved results.
A3 Problem-Solving is applicable in various contexts. It helps organizations systematically tackle issues related to knowledge, processes, workflows, communication, and much more. By addressing problems methodically, A3 Problem-Solving contributes to more efficient and sustainable solutions.
To learn more about the foundational concepts, see the entry on A3 Thinking.
Note: A3 Problem-Solving should not be confused with the “A3 Problem-Solving report,” the document used to capture and communicate the problem-solving process on A3-sized paper. The report is a tool within the A3 Problem-Solving approach to ensure clarity and structured communication.