Which of the following is an example of a preventative cost?

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Preventative costs are incurred to prevent defects and ensure quality before products or services are delivered, thereby reducing the likelihood of failures and associated costs in the future. In this context, capability studies are a prime example of preventative costs because they involve analyzing and improving processes to ensure they can meet quality standards effectively. By conducting capability studies, organizations can identify variations in their processes and take corrective actions proactively, which helps in minimizing defects and improving overall quality.

On the other hand, inspection and reporting are typically associated with detection costs—costs incurred after production to assess quality. Warranty claims and customer service training are considered internal and external failure costs, often arising from substandard products and services delivered to customers. These costs are reactive rather than preventative. Therefore, capability studies stand out as a clear preventive measure aimed at ensuring quality from the outset.