An accepted sample does not mean every item in the lot was examined. State that distinction plainly when reporting an inspection result.
ASQ explains sampling as drawing conclusions about a population or lot from a selected subset. ASQ — sampling.
Define the decision basis
Identify the lot, the applicable sampling plan and the observed results. Do not invent a sample size or acceptance rule from a convenient percentage. The plan must fit the purpose and applicable requirements.
Keep limitations visible
A result concerns the selected characteristics under the stated inspection conditions. It is not a universal guarantee about all possible defects or future production. A concern outside the inspection scope still needs its own evaluation.
For a buyer, a useful report makes the sample-to-lot relationship traceable. It shows what was selected, how the decision was made and which questions the inspection did not attempt to answer.
Source reviewed 25 October 2026. Practical interpretation and original illustrations by PLUSHIP / Qunhe; examples are illustrative.
Related reading
A Test Method Does Not Automatically Set the Acceptance Criteria
A Fishbone Diagram Organises Possible Causes, Not Proven Causes
FMEA Ratings Support Prioritisation; They Are Not Test Results