Title: An alternative statistical procedure in evaluating applied research products

Authors: David Trafimow; Stephen Rice

Addresses: Department of Psychology, MSC 3452, New Mexico State University, P.O. Box 30001, Las Cruces, NM 88003-8001, USA. ' Department of Psychology, MSC 3452, New Mexico State University, P.O. Box 30001, Las Cruces, NM 88003-8001, USA

Abstract: For decades, applied researchers have had a choice between statistical methods that have been shown to not be perfectly valid (null hypothesis significance testing procedure) or to be based on premises that are difficult to justify (Bayesian method). These limitations have slowed the progress of product development, particularly in safety research. We propose a new statistical method termed epistemic ratio procedure (ERP), which is both logically valid and based on accurate premises that can be generated by either consumers or designers. This procedure allows applied researchers to compare the degree of empirical support among competing products or services. Theoretical and methodological implications for future applied research are discussed.

Keywords: p-value; Bayes; prep; applied research products; product development; safety research; statistical methods; epistemic ratio procedure; product evaluation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEDPO.2012.049296

International Journal of Experimental Design and Process Optimisation, 2012 Vol.3 No.2, pp.198 - 216

Received: 28 Mar 2012
Accepted: 09 Jun 2012
Published online: 27 Aug 2014 *

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