What does process capability measure?

Process capability measures the ability of a process to produce output that meets specified limits or requirements consistently. This concept is critical in understanding how well a manufacturing or production process can perform relative to its intended specifications, which includes aspects such as dimensions, tolerances, and performance characteristics.

In practical terms, this means that a capable process is expected to produce products that fall within the established specifications, leading to reduced variation and increased quality. When processes are capable, organizations can better predict performance, enhance customer satisfaction, and control costs, as they can avoid defects and the associated costs of rework or scrap.

Considering the other options, the efficiency of supplier manufacturing focuses more on productivity metrics rather than the capability to meet specific output quality standards. The cost-effectiveness of procurement strategies pertains to financial assessments and considerations, rather than the technical performance of production processes. Lastly, the quality of relationships with suppliers, while important for successful procurement, does not directly measure how effectively a production process meets its design specifications. The emphasis on outputs being within limits is what specifically defines process capability.