Defect prevention is the _______ of the four types of quality cost.

Defect prevention is considered the most cost effective of the four types of quality costs because investing in preventive measures helps reduce the overall costs associated with defects in the long run. By implementing processes that focus on preventing defects before they occur, organizations can save on costs related to rework, scrap, and warranty claims, which are incurred when defects do occur.

When a company prioritizes defect prevention, it not only enhances product quality but also boosts customer satisfaction and trust. This proactive approach can lead to significant financial savings, as it is generally much cheaper to ensure quality upfront than to deal with the consequences of defects later in the production process or after the product reaches the customer. This is why defect prevention stands out as the most cost-effective strategy in managing quality-related costs.

The other options reflect characteristics that do not align with the objective or impact of defect prevention.