Round robin test

In experimental methodology, a round robin test is an interlaboratory 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.

A round robin program is a Measurement Systems Analysis technique which uses Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) random effects model to assess a measurement system.

Purpose

There are different reasons for performing a round robin test:

• Determine the Reproducibility of a test method or process
• 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 method

References

• ASTM E691 Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
• IUPAC: Round Robin Test on the Molecular Characterization of Epoxy Resins by Liquid Chromatography
• NIST/SEMATEK (2008) Handbook of Statistical Methods,
• Interlaboratory Proficiency Testing Program vs. Round Robin Tests
• KIMW: Proficiency test: Plastic testing and -analysis