Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a control chart in quality management?

1. To track product inventory

2. To monitor process variations over time

3. To display project timelines

4. To provide employee performance metrics

The correct answer is: To monitor process variations over time

The purpose of a control chart in quality management is to monitor process variations over time. Control charts are essential tools used in Six Sigma and quality control methodologies to identify variations in processes and determine whether they are within acceptable limits or if they indicate a potential issue that needs correction. By visualizing data points over time against control limits, teams can quickly recognize trends, shifts, or unusual patterns, which allows them to act proactively to maintain or improve process performance. This monitoring is crucial for ensuring that processes remain stable and predictable, which is a key goal in quality management. The other choices focus on distinct areas that do not directly relate to the role of control charts. Tracking product inventory deals with supply chain management rather than process control. Displaying project timelines pertains to project management tools, helping teams keep track of milestones and deadlines. Providing employee performance metrics relates to human resource management and performance evaluations, not process variation monitoring. Thus, the focus on monitoring process variations makes the correct answer particularly relevant in the context of quality management.