A Diversity Monitor with Known Errors for Process Variability Observed in Categorical Data

摘要

In this article we extend quality control research into nominal and ordinal data from simple monitors of location to those of variability. Given ordinal data more traditional process control relies on demerit systems that explicitly monitor central location but not the distribution spread. It is quantified here in terms borrowed from ecology. An established index of diversity and its standard error are the basis for a new quality control chart that we have also assessed with respect to error rates.