Test Method Validation
Test methods are often scrutinized for their validity, applicability, and accuracy. It is very important that the scope of the test method be clearly defined, and any aspect included in the scope is shown to be accurate and repeatable through validation.
Test method validations often encompass the following considerations:
- Accuracy and precision: Demonstration of accuracy may require the creation of a reference value if none is yet available.
- Repeatability and Reproducibility, sometimes in the form of a Gauge R&R.
- Range, or a continuum scale over which the test method would be considered accurate. Example: 10 N to 100 N force test.
- Measurement resolution, be it spatial, temporal, or otherwise.
- Curve fitting, typically for linearity, which justifies interpolation between calibrated reference points.
- Robustness, or the insensitivity to potentially subtle variables in the test environment or setup which may be difficult to control.
- Usefulness to predict end-use characteristics and performance
- Measurement uncertainty
- Interlaboratory or round robin tests
- other types of measurement systems analysis
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