Indexing reliability for condition survey data

Abstract

This paper discusses the application of existing methods for measuring reliability to collection condition survey data. The essential requirement of reliability is understood by conservators but has never been quantified. The relativelyrecent introduction of computer methods that calculate reliability is mentioned as a significant step towards introducing the practice of ensuring reliability during pilotstudies. The paper discusses different methods of quantification, and their qualities, as well as the aims ofassessing reliability for condition surveys. The most satisfactory methods, and choosing an appropriate level of reliability for conservation applications are suggested. However, no single number is offered as a standard. It isrecommended that more than one index should be used. The paper also describes techniques to use indices to determine causes of disagreement, so reliability can be increased.