title: A method evaluation decision chart (MEDx chart) for judging method performance.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To introduce a new graphical tool that improves the process of making decisions about method performance.
  
  
  METHODS
  Scientific literature, mathematical models, and the author's experience.
  
  
  METHODS
  Not applicable.
  
  
  METHODS
  Not applicable.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Relationship to charts of operating specifications (OPSpecs charts) provides guidance for classification of performance as poor, marginal, good, or excellent.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Objective decisions on the performance of methods can be made quickly and easily with the aid of a Method Evaluation Decision Chart.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison 53792, USA.
authors.forename: J O
authors.initials: JO
authors.lastname: Westgard
mesh_terms: D015982:Bias; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D003663:Decision Trees; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D011786:Quality Control