Which of the following best describes a VM study?

A Value Methodology (VM) study is a core concept in the VMF 1 course (Core Competency #1: Value Methodology Overview). According to SAVE International’s Value Methodology Standard, a VM study is defined as “a structured effort by a multidisciplinary team using the Value Methodology to identify the functions of a project or process, establish a worth for each function, and develop alternatives to achieve those functions at the lowest overall cost while maintaining performance.” This definition emphasizes the structured nature of the VM Job Plan, the use of a multidisciplinary team (as noted in Question 24), and the focus on improving value through systematic analysis. This aligns with the description in Question 4, where a VM study was described as a structured effort using the VM process, but here the emphasis on a multidisciplinary team is key.

Option A (An analysis of a completed project design by a VM team) is incorrect because VM studies are not limited to completed designs; they can be applied at any stage of the project lifecycle, with the greatest impact early on (as noted in Questions 21 and 25).

Option B (An improvement process similar to Lean Six Sigma) is incorrect because, while VM shares goals with Lean Six Sigma (e.g., improving efficiency), it is a distinct methodology focused on function analysis and value optimization, not process variation reduction.

Option C (A workshop that applies the VM facilitated by a CVS) is incorrect because, while VM studies are often conducted as workshops and may be facilitated by a Certified Value Specialist (CVS), a CVS is not required (as clarified in Question 4), and “workshop” is too narrow a description for a VM study.

Option D (A structured effort by a multidisciplinary team using the VM) is correct, as it best captures the essence of a VM study per SAVE International’s definition, emphasizing the structured process and multidisciplinary team.