Is there a typical approach to establishing the reliability and usability of field-based measurements?
It is vital to demonstrate the usability and reliability of field-based measurement system results in a Triad-based project. Establishing usability/reliability often takes place in two distinctly different phases. The first phase consists of a demonstration of methods applicability, if required. A demonstration of methods applicability typically involves a pilot study to evaluate the performance of a proposed set of methods under site-specific operational conditions. A demonstration of methods applicability is warranted if there is either insufficient certainty about site-specific method performance, and/or if there is a need to “tweak” method protocols to make sure they are optimized for site-specific needs. A demonstration of methods applicability can be a stand-alone study, or it can be woven into pre-planned characterization activities. As it names implies, the primary purpose of the first phase is to ensure that all involved are comfortable with the proposed set of methods and the
