SHRM-CP Assessment Study Guide Test.
What type of business problem is solved most appropriately by using Six Sigma tools?
Minimizing inventories and redundancies
Speeding up processes
Improving quality
Improving work flows - CORRECT ANSWER Improving quality
Rationale
Quality issues can be solved by using Six Sigma tools. Six Sigma is a strategy that identifies and removes
the causes of defects and errors in manufacturing and business processes. Other business problems that
can be solved by using Six Sigma include too much variation, challenging root cause identifications,
numerous technical considerations, and other complex issues. Lean Six Sigma is a strategy that
eliminates waste and improves process flows.
For more information, refer to Module Organization, Functional Area 6, Section 3
A company has experienced computer system problems from Internet viruses introduced by employees
opening nonwork-related files. The system administrator wants HR to develop and implement a policy
restricting employee use of the Internet. Would this Internet policy be a good idea?
Yes; as a policy, it would become automatically enforceable under a union contract.
Yes; it can help an employer to monitor employees' Internet use.
No; it would violate an employee's right to privacy.
,No; it is not a deterrent to employee misconduct. - CORRECT ANSWER Yes; it can help an employer to
monitor employees' Internet use.
Rationale
Certainly a written policy could set limits for employees' personal use of the Internet and reduce the
influx of computer viruses. Other benefits are possible, too. It may never eliminate employee
misconduct. But it could help the employer avoid incidents that may lead to embarrassment for the
company and/or potential legal problems. Further, having a formal policy in place and communicating it
to employees reduces the employer's exposure to invasion-of-privacy claims.
For more information, refer to Module Organization, Functional Area 9, Section
What are three potentially successful generic strategies according to Michael Porter?
Divisional, functional, matrix
Cost leadership, differentiation, focus
Customer intimacy, innovation, control
Introduction, maturity, decline - CORRECT ANSWER Cost leadership, differentiation, focus
Rationale
According to Michael Porter, there are three potentially successful generic strategies: cost leadership,
differentiation, and focus.
For more information, refer to Module Strategy, Functional Area 15, Section 3
,Why do many organizational effectiveness and development (OED) programs begin with a needs
analysis?
It provides more information about best practices.
It provides multiple perspectives on the issue.
It lessens undue influence from management.
It is a critical ingredient in preparing budgets - CORRECT ANSWER It provides multiple perspectives on
the issue.
Rationale
A needs analysis leads to a deeper understanding of the issue, including multiple perspectives on the
issue itself and its effects and possible causes. Management is a stakeholder whose needs must be
managed in an OED intervention. A better understanding will probably result in a more efficient
response, but this is not the main purpose of the needs analysis. Best practices are explored once the
need is more fully understood.
For more information, refer to Module Organization, Functional Area 6, Section 2
What is the basis for international law?
Conventions and treaties
Extraterritoriality and civil law
, Common law and supranational law
Due diligence and the rule of law - CORRECT ANSWER Conventions and treaties
Rationale
International law is based on treaties, conventions, pacts, protocols, and covenants. The Geneva
Conventions and Protocols is an example.
For more information, refer to Module Competencies, Functional Area 0, Section 4
What is a benefit associated with informal organizations?
These elements restrict employees from responding to unusual situations.
These elements make it easier to try new approaches and practices.
