ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) — Question 12

An improvement in quality costs is MOST clearly indicated when:

Answer options

• A. Appraisal and failure costs drop.
• B. Prevention costs increase.
• C. Total quality costs fall below 15% of total sales.
• D. Management objectives are met.

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is D because meeting management objectives often signifies that quality initiatives are effectively implemented, leading to improved cost management. Options A and B refer to specific cost categories that may not directly indicate overall quality improvement. Option C is a specific metric that, while useful, does not encompass the broader picture of management objectives.