Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST) Practice Test

What is the main purpose of preventive costs in software quality?

1. To mitigate future risks

2. To ensure customer satisfaction

3. To encourage team collaboration

4. To validate product performance

The correct answer is: To mitigate future risks

The primary purpose of preventive costs in software quality is to mitigate future risks. These costs are incurred through activities such as process improvements, training, and preventive maintenance. By investing in these practices upfront, organizations aim to reduce the likelihood of defects and issues arising later in the software development lifecycle. This proactive approach minimizes the potential for rework, reduces the costs associated with fixing defects post-deployment, and ultimately enhances the overall quality of the software product. In addition to reducing defects, preventive costs also contribute to the creation of a more stable and reliable software environment, which can lead to greater overall efficiency and effectiveness in delivering software solutions. Organizations that prioritize preventive measures tend to benefit from lower failure rates, less downtime, and better alignment with customer expectations, thus emphasizing the long-term financial and operational advantages of such investments.