CPIM Practice Exam

What is the function of a scatter chart in process analysis?

1. To provide a summary of averages

2. To analyze the relationship between two variables

3. To track production rates over time

4. To identify fixed costs associated with production

The correct answer is: To analyze the relationship between two variables

A scatter chart is primarily utilized to analyze the relationship between two variables, which makes this the correct choice. When plotted, each point on the scatter chart represents an observation of these two variables, allowing for visual inspection of how one variable may influence or correlate with another. This is particularly useful in process analysis, as it can help identify trends, correlations, or patterns that may inform decisions or improvements within a process. For instance, a scatter chart might reveal how changes in production speed impact the quality of the output, enabling better optimization of the operation. In contrast, the other options address functions that are not inherent to a scatter chart. Providing a summary of averages typically involves methods like bar charts or histograms that aggregate data rather than display individual data points for analysis. Tracking production rates over time would be more suited to line charts, which are designed to illustrate trends across a timeline. Identifying fixed costs associated with production usually requires financial analysis techniques, such as break-even analysis, rather than a scatter chart, which focuses on variable relationships rather than cost structures.