Problem tree template.
This problem tree template organizes a difficult issue into bottom roots, a core problem in the middle trunk, and top branches of visible effects. The example centers on employee turnover, but the same structure works for service failures, project delays, public policy issues, or community challenges. It helps a group separate evidence-backed root causes from the consequences they want to avoid. It also supports prioritizing practical interventions.
Open it in the AI editor with a prompt pre-filled — keep what works, change what doesn't.
Scenario
A people operations team uses this template in a root-cause workshop on employee turnover. Replace the sample causes and effects with findings from interviews, surveys, and operating data.
Key decisions
- A bottom-to-top flowchart makes the roots, trunk, and branches of the problem tree immediately readable.
- The core problem is isolated in the middle so the group does not confuse symptoms with the issue to solve.
- Three direct causes form the bottom roots before the group adds deeper roots.
- Secondary effects extend upward only where they add a meaningful consequence.
When to reuse this
Use it when you need a clean cause-to-problem-to-effect tree for analysis or planning. Use a causal loop diagram when feedback over time is more important than a single causal chain.
Frequently asked questions
What is a problem tree?
How do I make a problem tree?
How do I read a problem tree?
Is a problem tree template different from an example?
Do I need an account?
Tweak it with chat, export PNG/SVG, or fork it for your own use case.