The hidden quality gap in discovery

Progress made through technological advances in drug discovery can be undermined by problems with measurement equipment, but it is often difficult to detect the issues without a specific investigation. This article describes the fundamentals of measurement systems analysis and focuses on the issue of precision. Three case studies are given where measurement systems were found to be flawed when subjected to a systematic analysis, and examples of the approaches needed for correction are described.

► A multidrop was found to dispense inconsistent volumes, distorting results.
► Readings from a 384-tip replicator were found to be inconsistent over time.
► 17% of compounds in a store of 40,000 were not in a fit state to be used.
► Proactive investigation of lab measurement systems can improve assay reliability.