Final answer:
The statement is true; offset is indeed a steady-state error that can be a permanent part of a control system unless compensated for by methods like integral control.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'offset is a steady-state error that is a permanent part of a system' is true. Offset in control systems refers to the difference between the desired value (setpoint) and the actual output value that persists in the steady-state after transients have settled. This can occur due to system disturbances, changes in system parameters, or non-linearities. It is an important aspect to consider in control theory when designing controllers that need to maintain a process at a specific level, as in the case of temperature control, speed control, or level control systems. Methods such as integral control are often implemented within a control loop to reduce or eliminate the offset, aiming to improve the system's accuracy and performance over time.