The correct answers are A and D . In a VM study, assumptions must not be accepted automatically as fixed requirements. Many projects begin with assumptions about user needs, design criteria, operating conditions, owner preferences, codes, capacities, materials, schedules, or performance expectations. Over time, these assumptions may become treated as mandatory requirements even when they have not been tested. The VM study team’s responsibility is to examine them objectively.
The team should challenge assumptions with facts because unsupported assumptions can restrict creativity, increase cost, and prevent better value solutions. Challenging does not mean rejecting them blindly; it means asking whether the assumption is true, current, measurable, and necessary to perform the required function.
The team should also verify assumptions through project data, stakeholder input, customer needs, technical criteria, codes, standards, cost information, and performance requirements. Verified assumptions may remain as valid constraints or criteria. Unverified assumptions should not control the study.
Option B is incorrect because assumptions should not simply be replaced without analysis. Option C is incorrect because accepting assumptions as facts can cause the team to preserve unnecessary cost and miss value-improvement opportunities.
References/topics: Information Phase; Assumptions; Criteria and Requirements; Fact-Based Analysis; VM Job Plan.
