Question

Which of the following functions is responsible for conducting customer tests and evaluating prototypes in the design and development step of the process development process?

A) Research and Development
B) Marketing
C) Quality Assurance
D) Product Management

Answer 1

Quality Assurance is the function responsible for conducting customer tests and evaluating prototypes during the design and development phase to ensure the design meets constraints and performance criteria.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function responsible for conducting customer tests and evaluating prototypes in the design and development step of the process development process is Quality Assurance (C). Quality Assurance teams are integral to the testing phase where they define test methods, take ownership of the testing process, and manage project testing from beginning to end. They ensure that prototypes are tested thoroughly to verify the design meets all constraints and performs to the established criteria. This involves setting up test methods, documenting all testing results, and identifying problems found through materials, product, and process testing. If any weaknesses are found or if the prototype fails to meet certain criteria or constraints, Quality Assurance may recommend refinements or improvements to the design.