ASQ Updated CSSBB Exam Questions and Answers by katherine

The correct answer is B. The residuals indicate a non-constant variance . ANOVA assumes that residuals are approximately normal and that the variance is reasonably constant across groups. When residual plots show non-constant variance , this signals a violation of model assumptions and often indicates that the data should be transformed before interpreting the ANOVA results. The CSSBB materials note that when data are not normal or do not satisfy assumptions for analyses such as t-tests, ANOVA, and process capability , one appropriate action is to transform the data , often using a logarithmic or other power transformation. The CSSBB source also discusses common transformations such as log, square root, exponential, and reciprocal, with Box-Cox cited as a useful technique for finding an appropriate transformation.

By contrast, completely random residual behavior is generally desirable because it suggests no obvious pattern remains. A completely linear normal probability plot also supports the adequacy of the assumptions. Outliers may require investigation, but they do not automatically imply that transformation is the right response. The clearest indicator here is non-constant variance , so B is the verified best answer.

The correct answer is D. kanban . The CSSBB source defines kanban as a method of material control intended to provide product with short lead times while reducing inventory and controlling replenishment through pull signals. It describes the system as one in which parts are supplied to the next operation based on a kanban instruction , rather than being sent whenever upstream operations happen to finish.

That fits this question exactly. The problem is that subassemblies are being pushed into final assembly as they are completed, creating confusion and disorder. A kanban system would convert that push behavior into a pull system , so final assembly receives material when it is actually needed and in the right quantity. Standard work helps define the best method, 5S improves workplace organization, and poka-yoke helps prevent errors, but none of those is primarily a material-replenishment control method. Since the root issue is uncontrolled flow of containers into final assembly, the Lean tool designed to address it is kanban . Therefore, the verified answer is D .

The process that should take priority is the one related to the organization’s strategic plan. In Six Sigma deployment, project and process priorities should be driven first by strategic alignment. When an improvement effort directly supports the strategic plan, it is more likely to receive leadership sponsorship, funding, cross-functional support, and long-term attention. Strategic alignment also increases the chance that the improvement will produce meaningful business impact rather than only local optimization. The other characteristics listed may still matter. A process used in various areas of the organization may offer broad benefit, and a process that avoids delivery disruption may be easier to improve operationally. However, without strategic relevance, those efforts may not rank as highly in an enterprise deployment model. Black Belts are expected to connect improvement work to business priorities, not just convenience or operational spread. Therefore, the correct answer is C, Process C, because processes linked to the strategic plan should normally receive priority in organization-wide planning and deployment.

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The correct answer is B. Reduce defects . The CSSBB source defines rolled throughput yield (RTY) as the cumulative yield through multiple process steps and gives the formula as the product of the yields for each step . It also notes that RTY is the probability that a unit successfully completes all process requirements across all steps. The supplemental Lean Six Sigma material states explicitly that RTY decreases due to defects, even if the defects are corrected .

Because RTY is driven directly by first-pass success at each step, the most effective way to increase RTY is to reduce defects and improve first-time yield in the process steps that are causing losses. Reducing inventory, developing productivity metrics, or using 5S may support improvement efforts indirectly, but none of those changes RTY as directly as lowering defect opportunities and rework. The CSSBB example also shows that low-yield steps point to where improvement projects should focus. Therefore, the best verified answer is B. Reduce defects .