Key terms and definitions

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 Attribute data – Data that can be counted for recording and analysis (sometimes referred to as go/
no go data)

 Variable data – Data that can be measured; data that has a value that can vary from one sample to
the next; continuous variable data can have an infinite number of values
 Bias – Difference between the average or mean observed value and the target value

 Stability – A change in the measurement bias over a period of time

 A stable process would be considered in “statistical control”

 Linearity – A change in bias value within the range of normal process operation

 Resolution – Smallest unit of measure of a selected tool gage or instrument; the sensitivity of the
measurement system to process variation for a particular characteristic being measured