CPIM Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the concept of throughput?

1. The amount of stock ordered from suppliers

2. The total capacity of a facility

3. The output rate of products that meet goals

4. The time taken to replenish inventory

The correct answer is: The output rate of products that meet goals

Throughput is defined as the rate at which a system produces goods that meet the established quality and quantity standards within a specific timeframe. It represents how effectively a production process converts inputs into finished products that align with customer demands and expectations. Focusing on output that meets goals emphasizes the importance of not just producing a high quantity, but ensuring that the quality of the output is also satisfactory, which is crucial for overall efficiency and profitability in operations. The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of throughput. The amount of stock ordered from suppliers relates more to inventory management than to the actual production rate. The total capacity of a facility refers to the maximum output it can achieve under ideal conditions, but it does not consider the actual performance in terms of quality and timing. The time taken to replenish inventory focuses on inventory management and does not reflect the production rate or the quality of output, which are key elements of throughput. Therefore, the emphasis on the output of products meeting goals makes the chosen answer the best descriptor of throughput.