Which tool is primarily used to assess the current performance of a process?

The control chart is a statistical tool used to monitor and assess the current performance of a process over time. It allows teams to observe how a process behaves, identify variations, and determine whether the process is stable or in control. By plotting data points in relation to predetermined control limits, teams can quickly visualize the performance of the process and recognize any trends or shifts that may indicate issues that need investigation. This continuous monitoring can help organizations sustain improvements and ensure that processes are performing as expected.

In contrast, other tools mentioned serve different purposes. A process flow diagram illustrates the steps in a process, providing a visual representation but not assessing performance directly. Root cause analysis is typically employed to identify the underlying reasons for issues or defects after they have occurred, rather than assessing ongoing performance. Value stream mapping helps identify waste and visualize the flow of materials and information but is more focused on systemic improvement opportunities rather than real-time performance assessment. Hence, the control chart stands out as the primary tool for performance assessment within processes.