ASTM International Committee E18 on Sensory Evaluation of Materials and Products has begun to develop a new proposed Guide for Panelist Feedback. The proposed standard will provide guidance on how to address various issues involved in delivering performance and information feedback to discrimination and descriptive/attribute testing panels. Information on the proposed guide, which is under the jurisdiction of Subcommittee E18.03 on Sensory Theory and Statistics, can be found at the ASTM International Web site by entering WK6965 into the site search box on ASTMs home page, www.astm.org/.
WK6965 is intended for use with panels performing discrimination and descriptive/attribute testing. It does not include consumer acceptance/preference testing.
Communication is a primary focus of the new proposed guide. "Communication is important for the successful development and maintenance of sensory panels," says Carla Kuesten, associate principal, sensory and consumer research, TIAX LLC. "Soliciting, receiving and utilizing feedback is key to efficient learning and necessary for maintaining high levels of panelist performance. This document will serve as a practical guide for communication of panelist feedback." Kuesten also notes that WK6965 will include constructive feedback methods based on current practices within the sensory community as well as the type of feedback that should be avoided.
In addition to communication, other aspects of panelist feedback covered in WK6965 include performance levels and criteria, training feedback, stakeholders feedback (communication of panel activities and performance), and motivation (feedback as a means of motivating panelists).
Committee E18 welcomes participation from any parties interested in contributing to the development of WK6965.
For further technical information, contact Carla Kuesten, TIAX LLC, Cambridge, Mass. (phone: 617/498-5181; kuesten.carla@tiaxllc.com). Committee E06 meets April 19-21, during the ASTM Committee Week in Reno, Nev. For membership or meeting details, contact Scott Orthey, ASTM International (phone: 610/832-9730; sorthey@astm.org).
Release #7087