Round robin test

In experimental methodology, a round robin test is a test (measurement, analysis, or experiment) performed independently several times. This can involve multiple independent scientists performing the test with the use of the same method in different equipment, or a variety of methods and equipment. In reality it is often a combination of the two, for example if a sample is analysed, or one (or more) of its properties is measured by different laboratories using different methods, or even just by different units of equipment of identical construction.

Purpose

There are different reasons for performing a round robin test:
*Verification of a new method of analysis: If a new method of analysis has been developed, a round robin test involving proven methods would verify whether the new method produces results that agree with the established methods.
*Verification of reproducibility: When a new experimental method is designed, a round robin test where different laboratories use the new method would verify reproducibility.
*Selecting a method of analysis: It may not always be clear what method of analysis should be used for a specific case. A round robin test involving the available methods will reveal which methods give satisfactory results. What method to use can then be decided on premises such as price and time consumption.

References

* IUPAC: [http://www.iupac.org/projects/1999/1999-021-1-400.html Round Robin Test on the Molecular Characterization of Epoxy Resins by Liquid Chromatography]
* NIST: [http://ciks.cbt.nist.gov/~garbocz/nist6883/ Analysis of the ASTM Round-Robin Test on Particle Size Distribution of Portland Cement: Phase I]
* [http://www.pri-network.org/PRI/IPT-vs-Round-Robin.id.27.htm Interlaboratory Proficiency Testing Program vs. Round Robin Tests]