Which of the following is a benefit of mistake-proofing (Poka-Yoke)?

Question

Options

• AIt eliminates all variation
• BIt reduces the chance of human error
• CIt improves operator speed
• DIt removes the need for SOPs

• A
  5% (2)
• B
  88% (35)
• C
  5% (2)
• D
  3% (1)

Explanation

Poka-Yoke (Japanese for "mistake-proofing") refers to mechanisms or design features that prevent errors before they occur or make errors immediately obvious - its core purpose is reducing human error (B), not eliminating it entirely or replacing other quality systems.

Why the distractors are wrong:

• A is incorrect because Poka-Yoke targets defects caused by human error, not all sources of variation (which requires tools like SPC or process capability studies).
• C is incorrect because the goal is error prevention, not speed improvement - in fact, some Poka-Yoke devices may slightly slow a process.
• D is incorrect because SOPs remain necessary; Poka-Yoke complements SOPs by adding physical or automated safeguards when humans might deviate from them.

Memory tip: Think of a USB plug that only fits one way - it doesn't make you faster, eliminate all variation, or replace instructions, but it does stop you from making a mistake. That's Poka-Yoke in a nutshell.

No community discussion yet for this question.