If all else failed, we could simply compute a simple average from our sample. We believe that much more sophisticated use of the data will be made, but this simple approach remains open to us. If a simple calculation is all that a reviewer will believe, then we will be prepared to furnish the answer in this way. For the most part, the proposed statistical methods have a long history, backed up by publications and experience. Only the combination of parts is in any way unique, like much of new technology.
Someone can always make mistakes or at least commit outright fraud.
For this reason, there is not only the usual quality control check within the system, but the system is being designed for a formal outside audit. This will allow the people of British Columbia the option of an outside agency to assure them that the overall answers are roughly correct. We will not depend upon honesty and correct data - although we expect it. It has been suggested that we should be able to generate a valid sample plan for any outside agency who wishes to check the answers on any attribute of the inventory. There are many assumptions, tables and studies used by the inventory.