Free SAVE International CVS Practice Exam with Questions & Answers | Set: 5

The correct answers are A and B . In Function Analysis and FAST diagramming, a higher-order function is positioned to the left of the basic function and answers the question “Why is this function performed?” It represents the broader purpose or need that is satisfied when the basic function is successfully achieved. Therefore, option A is correct because the higher-order function expresses the customer, user, or project need served by the basic function.

Option B is also correct because the higher-order function can be understood as the output or result produced by accomplishing the basic function. In FAST logic, the basic function performs a required action, and the higher-order function explains the reason or outcome of that action. It is not normally the detailed mechanism for achieving the basic function.

Option C is incorrect because the basic function , not the higher-order function, is fundamental to the subject scope. The higher-order function often lies just outside or above the study scope as the reason the basic function is needed. Option D is incorrect because inputs or enabling actions are usually associated with lower-order or “how” functions, not higher-order “why” functions.

References/topics: Function Analysis Phase; FAST Diagramming; Higher-Order Function; Basic Function; How/Why Logic.

The correct answers are B and D . A RACI matrix is most appropriate when the VM facilitator needs to clarify involvement, responsibility, accountability, consultation, and communication among participants or stakeholders. In the SAVE International Value Methodology Core Competencies, the RACI matrix is listed under the Information Phase as a method used to transform information, while process flowcharts are listed separately as a different technique. This distinction is important because a RACI matrix does not map process sequence; it clarifies roles and involvement.

A RACI chart defines who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for project tasks, and it is used to reduce confusion, improve communication pathways, and establish clear ownership. ( Atlassian ) Therefore, it directly addresses communication gaps and misunderstood concepts related to who should act, decide, advise, or be kept informed.

Option A is incorrect because process-flow issues are better handled with a process flowchart. Option C is incorrect because validated assumptions do not require role clarification; they are already confirmed information.

References/topics: Information Phase; RACI Matrix; Methods to Transform Information; VM Facilitation; Stakeholder Communication.

The correct answer is B. focuses on what a subject does . The key difference between the VM Job Plan and many other problem-solving methods is its deliberate emphasis on function . In Value Methodology, the team does not begin by defending the existing design, component, process, or solution. Instead, it asks what the subject must do to satisfy the required need.

SAVE’s Study Guide states that Value Methodology improves value through the analysis of functions and that Function Analysis is the activity that differentiates VM from other problem-solving or improvement practices. It also explains that functions describe the work being performed within the study scope using active verb and measurable noun pairings. ( )

Option A is incorrect because VM still requires adequate information during the Information Phase. Option C is incorrect because VM does not reduce analysis; it structures analysis through the Job Plan. Option D describes the scientific method more closely because hypothesis development and testing are central to scientific inquiry. The VM Job Plan is function-based: it defines, analyzes, creatively improves, evaluates, develops, and presents alternatives that better perform required functions. SAVE’s VM Standard also confirms that Function Analysis defines project functions and identifies which functions require improvement, elimination, or creation. ( )

References/topics: Value Methodology and Job Plan; Function Analysis Phase; Function-Based Thinking; Active Verb/Measurable Noun; VM vs Scientific Method.

The correct answer is A. creative steps from analytical steps . The VM Job Plan is structured so the team does not mix information gathering, function analysis, idea generation, judgment, and proposal development into one uncontrolled discussion. SAVE guidance describes the Job Plan as the process that guides the study team in identifying and focusing on key project functions to create ideas that result in value improvement. ( )

This separation is important because the Creative Phase requires free idea generation without premature criticism, feasibility judgment, or cost filtering. The Evaluation Phase then applies analytical judgment to screen, rank, and select ideas with value potential. The Development Phase further analyzes selected alternatives through cost, performance, risk, and implementation considerations. SAVE’s VM Standard also states that a qualifying value study follows an organized Job Plan with defined phases, including Function Analysis, Creative, Evaluation, Development, and Presentation. ( )

Option B is incorrect because designers may be part of the multidisciplinary VM team. Option C is incorrect because cost and function are intentionally related during VM analysis. Option D is incorrect because project needs and functions are also connected; functions express what must be done to satisfy needs.

References/topics: Value Methodology and Job Plan; Creative Phase; Evaluation Phase; Function Analysis; Analytical vs Creative Thinking.

The correct answers are A. Proposals that provide the greatest benefit and B. The relative risk of each proposal . During the Presentation Phase, the VM team must communicate recommendations that are strong enough to justify management action. SAVE’s VM guidance states that developed alternatives should include cost, performance data, implementation cost, and consideration of risk and uncertainty . It also identifies performance benefit analysis as part of developing alternatives before presentation. ( UW Courses )

When time is limited, the facilitator should guide the team toward proposals with the highest value contribution, not simply the easiest or cheapest ideas. A proposal with the greatest benefit is most aligned with VM’s purpose: improving value by achieving required functions more effectively. Risk is also essential because decision makers must understand whether the recommendation is practical, credible, and acceptable for implementation.

Option C may be attractive, but ease of implementation alone does not prove high value. Option D is incorrect because low cost impact may produce limited value improvement and may not justify presentation priority. The Presentation Phase seeks concurrence and commitment from decision makers to proceed with implementation of recommendations. ( UW Courses )

References/topics: Presentation Phase; Development Phase; VM Proposal Selection; Risk and Uncertainty; Performance Benefit Analysis.