What does a control chart help track in a manufacturing process?

A control chart is a vital tool in quality control, primarily used to monitor the statistical performance of a process over time. The main purpose of a control chart is to track process variability, helping professionals observe patterns that may indicate changes or stability within that manufacturing process. By plotting data points over time and establishing control limits, a control chart allows operators to identify trends, shifts, or potential problems early on.

This capability is crucial for maintaining quality standards and ensuring that processes remain within acceptable limits. For example, if a control chart shows a consistent upward trend in variability, it may signal that adjustments are necessary to restore the process to its desired performance levels. Understanding these dynamics helps manufacturers achieve consistent product quality, timely interventions in case of anomalies, and ultimately maintain customer satisfaction.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with the primary function of a control chart; they pertain to different areas of operations that are not specifically measured through this kind of statistical tool.