SAVE International VMA Exam With Confidence Using Practice Dumps

Function Analysis in Value Methodology involves identifying and classifying functions of a product, process, or system using verb-noun combinations, as taught in the VMF 1 course (Core Competency #2). Functions are categorized as basic (essential to the purpose), secondary (supporting), or unwanted (undesirable outcomes). For a hammer, the basic function is to “deliver force” to drive a nail, while secondary functions like “swing arm” or “apply force” support this purpose. An unwanted function is an unintended or negative outcome of the hammer’s use.

Option A (Swing arm) is a supporting function, describing the action of the user’s arm to generate momentum, and is not unwanted.

Option B (Apply force) is a secondary function, as it describes the action leading to delivering force, and is not unwanted.

Option C (Deliver force) is the basic function of a hammer, essential to its purpose, and not unwanted.

Option D (Transmit vibration) is correct because it represents an unintended and undesirable outcome—vibration transmitted to the user’s hand can cause discomfort or fatigue, making it an unwanted function.

The VMF 1 course emphasizes identifying unwanted functions to target areas for value improvement, such as redesigning the hammer to reduce vibration.

The Function Analysis System Technique (FAST) diagram is a key tool in Value Methodology’s Function Analysis phase, as taught in the VMF 1 course (Core Competency #2). FAST diagrams map the relationships between functions, with the horizontal axis showing the “how-why” logic (critical path) and vertical lines called scope lines defining the study’s boundaries. According to SAVE International’s Value Methodology Standard, “the left vertical line in a FAST diagram is a scope line, and the function immediately to its right is typically the higher-order function, which represents the overarching goal or need for the system.” The functionto the leftof the left scope line is outside the study’s scope and often represents an even broader objective or external assumption that drives the higher-order function. However, in standard FAST diagramming, thehigher-order functionis the closest function to the left scope line within the scope, and functions to the left of the scope line (e.g., P in the diagram from Question 30) are external.

In the context of the VMA exam and VMF 1, the question likely tests the understanding of the higher-order function’s position relative to the scope line. As established in Question 18, Function E (just inside the left scope line B) is the higher-order function. Functions to the left of the left scope line (e.g., P) are typically external assumptions or broader objectives, but the options provided (A, B, C, D) refer to standard function classifications within the FAST framework. Thehigher-order function(C) is the most relevant choice, as it is the function closest to the left scope line within the study’s scope, and the question may be interpreted as asking for the function type associated with that position.

Option A (Basic Function) is incorrect because the basic function is typically more central on the critical path, not at the far left.

Option B (Secondary Function) is incorrect because secondary functions are vertical (supporting the critical path), not on the main path near the left scope line.

Option C (Higher Order Function) is correct, as the higher-order function is located just to the right of the left scope line (e.g., Function E), and the question may be interpreted in this context based on standard FAST conventions.

Option D (Lower Order Function) is incorrect because lower-order functions are to the right of the basic function, representing more specific outcomes, not near the left scope line.

Value Methodology (VM) is defined by SAVE International in its Value Methodology Standard as “asystematic processthat uses a structured Job Plan to improve the value of projects, products, or processes by analyzing their functions and identifying opportunities to achieve required functions at the lowest total cost without compromising quality or performance.” The term “systematic” emphasizes the methodical, disciplined approach of VM, which follows a defined sequence of phases (the VM Job Plan) and uses specific tools like Function Analysis and cost modeling to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Option A (Structured process) is partially correct, as VM is structured, but “systematic” is the precise term used by SAVE International to describe the methodology’s comprehensive and methodical nature.

Option B (Specialized process) is incorrect because VM is a general methodology applicable across industries, not limited to a specific domain.

Option C (Systematic process) is correct, directly matching SAVE International’s definition of VM.

Option D (Sequential process) is incorrect because, while the VM Job Plan is sequential, the definition of VM focuses on its systematic nature, not just the sequence.