A. WIP visibility increases cross-training opportunities
B. More WIP decreases variability
C. WIP is directly related to utilization
D. More WIP leads to slower throughput
The correct answer is
D. More WIP leads to slower throughput
The statement that is true about work in process (WIP) is:
More WIP leads to slower throughput.
Why this is correct
- The relationship between WIP and throughput is a key concept in Lean and Agile methodologies. As WIP increases, it typically leads to longer lead times and slower throughput due to the increased complexity of managing more simultaneous tasks, potential bottlenecks, and longer queues of work waiting to be completed. This concept is supported by Little’s Law, which describes the relationship between the number of items in a system, their throughput, and the average time an item spends in the system. Essentially, increasing WIP without corresponding increases in capacity tends to slow down the overall process.
Why the others are not as correct
- WIP visibility increases cross-training opportunities: While visibility into WIP can help identify bottlenecks and areas where cross-training might be beneficial, the visibility itself doesn’t directly increase cross-training opportunities. Cross-training opportunities are more directly created through intentional team development strategies and identifying skills gaps that need to be addressed.
- More WIP decreases variability: Increasing WIP actually can increase variability, not decrease it. More tasks in progress at the same time can lead to more fluctuations in workflow, increased complexity in managing the work, and a higher chance of interruptions and delays, thereby increasing variability rather than decreasing it.
- WIP is directly related to utilization: This statement can be misleading. While there is a relationship between WIP and resource utilization, it’s not a direct correlation where more WIP equals higher utilization efficiency. Too much WIP can lead to inefficiencies, higher cycle times, and potentially lower overall utilization due to bottlenecks and time spent context-switching between tasks.
Other SAFe Scrum Master Question – What are two benefits of applying cadence? (Choose two.)