VMA Exam Dumps - Value Methodology Associate

The Information Phase is the first phase of the Value Methodology (VM) Job Plan, as outlined in the VMF 1 course (Core Competency #3: Value Methodology Job Plan). According to SAVE International’s Value Methodology Standard, “the primary objective of the Information Phase is to obtain a thorough understanding of the subject of the VM study by gathering and analyzing data on project scope, costs, constraints, objectives, and stakeholder needs.” This phase establishes the foundation for the entire study by ensuring the team fully understands the project, its goals, and its constraints before proceeding to function analysis. While obtaining the voice of the customer (e.g., through focus panels, as noted in Question 34) and creating cost models are activities within this phase, the overarching objective is to understand the subject comprehensively.

Option A (Understand the subject) is correct, as it directly aligns with the primary objective of the Information Phase per VM standards (also noted in Question 14).

Option B (Obtain the voice of the customer) is incorrect because, while this is an activity within the Information Phase, it is not the primary objective; the broader goal is understanding the subject.

Option C (Create a cost model) is incorrect because cost modeling is a specific activity within the Information Phase, not the primary objective.

Option D (Transform information) is incorrect because transforming information occurs later (e.g., during Function Analysis or Development), not as the primary goal of the Information Phase.

Value Methodology (VM) is defined by SAVE International in its Value Methodology Standard as “asystematic processthat uses a structured Job Plan to improve the value of projects, products, or processes by analyzing their functions and identifying opportunities to achieve required functions at the lowest total cost without compromising quality or performance.” The term “systematic” emphasizes the methodical, disciplined approach of VM, which follows a defined sequence of phases (the VM Job Plan) and uses specific tools like Function Analysis and cost modeling to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Option A (Structured process) is partially correct, as VM is structured, but “systematic” is the precise term used by SAVE International to describe the methodology’s comprehensive and methodical nature.

Option B (Specialized process) is incorrect because VM is a general methodology applicable across industries, not limited to a specific domain.

Option C (Systematic process) is correct, directly matching SAVE International’s definition of VM.

Option D (Sequential process) is incorrect because, while the VM Job Plan is sequential, the definition of VM focuses on its systematic nature, not just the sequence.