What is the '5 Whys' technique primarily used for?

The '5 Whys' technique is primarily used to explore cause-and-effect relationships underlying a problem. This method involves repeatedly asking the question "Why?" in order to drill down to the root cause of an issue. By investigating the underlying reasons for a problem, practitioners can identify the fundamental cause rather than just addressing symptoms. This structured approach helps teams uncover deeper insights that can lead to more effective solutions.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of project management. Prioritizing deliverables relates to the organization and scheduling of tasks rather than investigating root causes. Determining stakeholder roles and responsibilities emphasizes the clarity of project roles and functions, which is not the aim of the '5 Whys' technique. Evaluating project scope involves defining the boundaries and deliverables of a project rather than discerning the reasons behind problems. Each of these aspects is important in project management but does not pertain to the specific focus of the '5 Whys' method.