Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) Prasctice Exam

An auditee's procedures require that all design drawings be dated and signed. The missing dates are examples of what kind of data?

1. Quantitative

2. Measured

3. Variable

4. Qualitative

The correct answer is: Qualitative

The missing dates on design drawings refer to a type of data that describes characteristics or attributes rather than numerical values. Qualitative data includes information that can be observed and collected that is not inherently numerical, such as the presence or absence of a signature or date. In this context, the absence of dates conveys information about compliance with procedures but does not provide measurable quantities. Understanding that qualitative data captures non-numerical attributes helps in recognizing that it focuses on quality, descriptions, and classifications, which are essential in auditing processes. Databases documenting the presence of key elements, like dates and signatures, serve to assess whether the established standards and procedures are being followed. Therefore, the missing dates exemplify the shortcomings in qualitative aspects of the documentation process.