Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of an affinity diagram?

1. To rank employee performance

2. To organize brainstorming ideas for group analysis

3. To create a flowchart of a process

4. To set up quality control measures

The correct answer is: To organize brainstorming ideas for group analysis

An affinity diagram serves as a tool for organizing and categorizing a large number of ideas generated during brainstorming sessions. The primary purpose is to help individuals or teams visually sort ideas into groups based on their relationships, which can lead to identifying themes or common elements in the thoughts shared. This method enables collaborative analysis and enhances understanding, making it easier to prioritize actions, identify issues, or develop solutions. During brainstorming, ideas can quickly become overwhelming. The affinity diagram approach provides structure, allowing participants to see connections among various ideas and facilitating productive discussions focused on specific groups of related concepts. It is particularly advantageous in situations where diverse perspectives are being gathered in order to tackle complex problems or to innovate effectively. This is why this answer aligns perfectly with the intended use of the affinity diagram, distinguishing it from the other choices that refer to distinct processes such as performance ranking, flowcharting, or quality control.