Leonard G. Johnson, Editor                                               Wang H. Yee, Director

The Field Data Dilemma

How does my product perform in the field?

Is it so bad that my doom is sealed?

These are the questions so often asked

By those whose job is to make things last.

I tested my product in the lab,

But still in the field it might be bad.

How in the world can I be sure

A tested product doesn't turn out poor?

What scheme of testing will guarantee

That field results with it agree?

Tell me how I can calculate

Field parameters which are accurate.

Field results from day to day

Make me wonder just what to say.

When does data ring an alarm,

And truly predict permanent harm?

These are the questions bothering me.

I want correct answers immediately.

If you're my friend, you must tell me straight

How to judge my product before it's too late.

Leonard  G. Johnson

June 4, 1979