The EWMA control chart: properties and comparison with other quality-control procedures by computer simulation

Clin Chem. 1997 Apr;43(4):594-601.

Abstract

A quality-control chart based on exponentially weighted moving averages (EWMA) has, in the past few years, become a popular tool for controlling inaccuracy in industrial quality control. In this paper, I explain the principles of this technique, present some numerical examples, and by computer simulation compare EWMA with other control charts currently used in clinical chemistry. The EWMA chart offers a flexible instrument for visualizing imprecision and inaccuracy and is a good alternative to other charts for detecting inaccuracy, especially where small shifts are of interest. Detection of imprecision with EWMA charts, however, requires special modification.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Chemistry, Clinical* / statistics & numerical data
  • Computer Simulation*
  • Quality Control*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity