SAVE International Updated CVS Exam Questions and Answers by parker

The correct answers are A and D . Value Methodology is defined by SAVE International as a systematic process used by a multidisciplinary team to improve project value through the analysis of functions. Because the method intentionally brings together people from different technical, operational, cost, owner, user, and management perspectives, it naturally encourages multidisciplinary communication . The SAVE Study Guide also explains that function naming helps multidisciplinary teams build a shared understanding of project requirements, which supports clearer communication and better identification of value-improvement opportunities. ( )

The second correct answer is develops realistic budgets . VM evaluates required functions against resources such as materials, labor, price, time, and other cost drivers. This function/resource relationship helps teams understand what the project must accomplish and what resources are reasonably required. OMB’s Value Engineering policy also describes VE as a management tool used to ensure realistic budgets , remove nonessential costs, and maintain acceptable quality. ( George W. Bush White House Archives )

Option C is incorrect because VM does not maintain paradigms; it challenges assumptions and existing approaches. Option B may occur as an indirect benefit, but it is not the stronger core answer for this two-response item.

References/topics: Value Methodology Definition; Multidisciplinary Team; Function/Resource Relationship; VM Job Plan; VM Programs.

The correct answers are B and D . An effective evaluation framework in Value Methodology must be structured, objective, and aligned with the subject’s purpose. The SAVE Value Methodology Standard describes the Evaluation Phase as the point where the team follows a structured process to select ideas with value-improvement potential while delivering required functions and considering performance requirements and resource limits. ( )

Therefore, the facilitator and team must first define clear objectives and success criteria that align with the study subject’s goals. Evaluation cannot be based on preference alone; criteria should connect to function, performance, cost, schedule, risk, quality, user needs, and implementation feasibility. Involving stakeholders is also appropriate because stakeholders help confirm whether the evaluation criteria reflect actual project, customer, owner, or user priorities. Their participation improves acceptance of selected ideas and reduces resistance during later development and implementation.

Option A is incorrect because the Creativity Phase is intended for generating ideas, not judging them. Introducing evaluation too early suppresses divergent thinking. Option C is incorrect because a “gut feel index” is informal and subjective, while VM requires disciplined, traceable evaluation methods.

References/topics: Evaluation Phase; Evaluation Criteria; Stakeholder Engagement; VM Job Plan; Structured Idea Screening.

The correct answer is C . Using the stated formula, Value Index = Function Cost ÷ Function Worth = $120,000 ÷ $80,000 = 1.50 . SAVE’s dictionary defines Function Cost as the directly related resources allocated to a function and Function Worth as the lowest overall cost to perform a function without regard to criteria or code. It also defines Value Index as the monetary relationship of function cost to function worth, expressed as FC ÷ FW, where good value is VI ≤ 1.0.

Option A reverses the formula and calculates FW ÷ FC. Option B would mean cost equals worth, which is not true here. Option D has no mathematical basis from the numbers given. A VI of 1.50 indicates a value mismatch: the current function cost exceeds the function worth. This does not automatically mean the function should be eliminated, but it does identify a strong candidate for creativity and evaluation. CVS candidates must be careful because some older materials express the ratio in reverse; the exam stem controls the formula.

References/topics: Evaluation Phase; Function Cost; Function Worth; Value Index.

The correct answers are B, C, and D . Effective VM facilitation depends primarily on the facilitator’s ability to guide a multidisciplinary team through a structured process, not on personally solving the technical problem. SAVE’s VM Standard Reference defines VM as a systematic process used by a multidisciplinary team, led by a qualified VM facilitator , to improve value through function analysis. It also states that a VM study is facilitated by someone competent in VM techniques, ideally a CVS®.

Therefore, the facilitator must have belief in the group and its possibilities because VM relies on team intelligence, cross-functional input, creativity, and consensus-building. The facilitator must also have familiarity with facilitation concepts and methods , including managing participation, conflict, divergent thinking, convergence, and decision flow. Finally, the facilitator needs a practiced ability to plan appropriate group processes , because each VM phase requires the right method, timing, participation structure, and output control.

Option A is incorrect because disruptive behavior should be managed objectively, not treated as personal. Option E is not a core facilitation requirement; technical knowledge belongs mainly to subject-matter team members, while the facilitator protects the VM process.

References/topics: VM Facilitation and Team Dynamics; Facilitator Competence; Group Process Planning; Team Participation; VM Study Leadership.