Keep Your Test Protocols Simple
October 14, 2011, Erin McCloy
Check out OrthoTec’s recent article Test Protocols: Accelerate the Process and Keep Customers Happy by Daniel Santos at Pro-Dex, Inc. While geared towards the medical device market, it gives some solid - and relevant - tips for defining test protocols, as well as outlining why a good protocol is necessary across industries. I’d like to add Accutek’s perspective as a mechanical testing lab.
When speaking with a client about a new testing initiative, one of the first things we ask is whether there is a protocol to which they would like to test. And we get a variety of answers ranging from “Yes, we need static and fatigue testing as outlined in ASTM F1717” and “We have an internal protocol we will use” to “Um, no. I just need to know at what torque this bolt will break. Do I need a protocol?”
In a word – Yes. A good test protocol will ensure repeatability and reproducibility. No need to fret though if you don’t have a protocol developed, if your protocols are outdated or incomplete, or if you need a deviation from existing standards (e.g. ASTM, ISO, etc.). Accutek can support your organization with custom test and protocol development.
At Accutek, it comes down to three steps:
- Define the purpose and goal of your test
- Determine the process to achieve the goal
- Perform testing and validate your findings
We wholly concur with Mr. Santos statement “creating test protocols that verify and validate that a device meets a customer’s specifications and performance requirements doesn’t have to be as complex and costly as it might seem.”
Keeping this in mind will ensure your test programs go according to plan - keeping your product development budget in check and your customers happy.
