CompTIA Project+ Practice Test

Which tool can assist in determining if a project deliverable is out of specification?

1. PERT

2. RACI chart

3. Gantt chart

4. Control chart

The correct answer is: Control chart

The control chart is a statistical tool used to determine whether a process is in a state of control by monitoring process variability over time. It helps project managers analyze the performance of a deliverable against predefined specifications or control limits. When a deliverable falls outside these control limits, it indicates that it may be out of specification and requires further investigation. By using control charts, teams can identify trends, shifts, or any unusual patterns in the data that signal potential issues with deliverables, thus ensuring that they meet quality standards. In contrast, PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) is primarily a project management tool used for planning and scheduling project tasks, and it focuses more on time management rather than quality specifications. The RACI chart clarifies roles and responsibilities within a project, enabling better communication and accountability among team members but does not address deliverable specifications directly. The Gantt chart, visualizing the project schedule, aids in tracking progress over time but does not provide quality control mechanisms to evaluate whether deliverables meet specifications.