Certified Production & Operations Manager (POM) Practice Exam

Does concurrent engineering refer to sequential development?

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on the context

4. Not defined

The correct answer is: False

Concurrent engineering is a design approach that promotes the simultaneous development of products and processes across multiple disciplines and teams. In this methodology, various functions—such as design, engineering, manufacturing, and testing—work collaboratively from the beginning of a project rather than following a linear or sequential path. This integration helps in identifying potential issues early in the development cycle, reducing time to market, and improving overall product quality. The essence of concurrent engineering is its emphasis on collaboration and parallel workflows, which starkly contrasts with sequential development where stages are completed one after another. Therefore, the assertion that concurrent engineering refers to sequential development is fundamentally incorrect. Instead, it embodies a more holistic and integrated approach to product development, making the statement false.