Analytical procedure in terms of measurement quality assurance

Analytical procedure in terms of measurement (quality) assurance 

Abstract In the ordinary sense the term analytical procedure means a description of what has to be done while performing an analysis without reference to quality of the measurement. A more sound definition of analytical procedure can be given in terms of measurement (quality) assurance, in which a specified procedure to be followed is explicitly associated with an established accuracy of the results produced. 

The logic and consequences of such an approach are discussed, with background definitions and terminology as a starting point. Close attention is paid to the concept of measurement uncertainty as providing a single-number index of accuracy inherent in the procedure. The appropriateness of the uncertainty-based approach to analytical measurement is stressed in view of specific inaccuracy sources such as sampling and matrix effects. And methods for their evaluation are outlined. The question of a clear criterion for analytical procedure validation is also addressed from the standpoint of the quality requirement which measurement results need to meet as an end-product. 

Keywords Accuracy Analytical procedure Measurement assurance Measurement uncertainty Quality assurance Validation 

In ordinary usage the term analytical procedure hardly needs a referential definition and may be for this reason there are few official definitions of the term. The only definition quoted in the references [1] is rather diffuse  

---

Kadis R. Analytical procedure in terms of measurement (quality) assurance. In De Bievre P, Gtinzler H, editors. Validation in chemical measurements. Berlin Springer-Verlag 2005. p. 148-52. 

---