A3 — Problem-Solving Template
One page of clarity. Brings problem, cause, action, and learning loops onto a single A3 sheet.
Title:
Owner: Date: Version:
1. Background — Why does this concern us?
What's the trigger? What larger context makes this problem important?
2. Current state — What is measurable today?
Observable, with data or concrete examples.
3. Target state — What should become measurable?
Clear, testable, time-bound.
4. 3sets diagnosis
| Set | Finding |
|---|---|
| Tool-Set | |
| Skill-Set | |
| Mind-Set |
Weakest set: ☐ Tool ☐ Skill ☐ Mind
5. Cause analysis — 5 Whys, Fishbone, or 3sets lens
6. Countermeasures — What do we change concretely?
| # | Action | Owner | By when |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | |||
| 2. | |||
| 3. |
7. Measure — How do we recognize impact?
Quantitative or qualitative. When are first signals expected?
8. Follow-up — Date & learning
Review date: Owner:
Worked example: "Retros don't work"
- 1. Background: Retros every two weeks, same problems for months.
- 2. Current state: Actions formulated but not followed up. No ownership.
- 3. Target state: Each retro with max 3 concrete actions, owner, date, review.
- 4. 3sets diagnosis: Tool-Set: no action board. Skill-Set: facilitation weak. Mind-Set: belief in impact missing.
- 5. Cause analysis: Why no impact? Actions not executed. Why? Not tracked. Why? No owner. Why? No-one is allowed to decide cross-area. Why? Leadership hasn't lowered the threshold.
- 6. Countermeasures: Action board, facilitation training, leadership visibly decides two old blockers.
- 7. Measure: Share of completed actions, repeated topics, perceived effectiveness.
- 8. Follow-up: Review in 4 weeks, then every 2 sprints.
Pitfall: The A3 gets filled in once and never touched again. When you create it, put the follow-up date directly into the calendar — otherwise the A3 loses its power.
Source: The 3-Sets Method — Diagnostic Methods. More at 3sets.org/en.