In Value Methodology’s Function Analysis, the concepts of functions and activities are distinct but related, as taught in the VMF 1 course (Core Competency #2: Function Analysis). According to SAVE International’s Value Methodology Standard, “a function is defined as what a product, process, or system does, expressed in a verb-noun format (e.g., ‘contain liquid’), while an activity is a task, action, or operation that describes how a function is performed.” For example, the function of a teacup might be “contain liquid,” and the activity to achieve that function could be “holding the liquid in a ceramic structure.” Activities are the actionable steps or processes that enable the function, often identified during the creation of a FAST diagram or Random Function Identification table (as noted in Question 19). The “how” aspect aligns with the How-Why logic of FAST diagrams, where activities detail the practical execution of a function.
Option A (A task, action, or operation that describes why a function is performed) is incorrect because “why” relates to the higher-order function or purpose (e.g., Question 20), not the activity, which focuses on “how.”
Option B (A specific task, action, or operation that is generic and changes viewpoints) is incorrect because activities are not about changing viewpoints; they are specific actions to perform a function.
Option C (A task, action, or operation that describes how a function is performed) is correct, as it aligns with the definition of an activity in VM.
Option D (A specific task, action, or operation with a high level of abstraction) is incorrect because activities are practical and specific, not abstract; functions are more abstract (e.g., verb-noun format).
[:, SAVE International, VMF 1 Core Competency #2 (Function Analysis), distinguishing between functions (what) and activities (how)., SAVE International, “Value Methodology Standard,” section on Function Analysis, defining activities as the tasks or operations that describe how functions are performed., ]
Submit