What type of graph indicates which defects are most significant based on their frequency and associated costs?

A Pareto chart is a specialized bar graph that not only displays the frequency of defects but also prioritizes them according to their impact, often measured by associated costs. It is grounded in the Pareto principle, which asserts that a small number of causes are typically responsible for a large portion of the effects. In a Pareto chart, the bars represent the frequency of individual defects, and they are often arranged in descending order, allowing for a quick visual identification of the most significant issues.

Additionally, a cumulative line graph may accompany the bars on the same chart, illustrating the cumulative percentage of defects addressed, which further aids in determining which problems are worth tackling first to achieve the greatest overall improvement. This tool is particularly useful in quality control and management as it guides decision-makers in focusing their efforts and resources on the most impactful defects.