But
wait -- What about the impact of new technologies?
Why are new technologies of interest?
In part, because data quality is improved through increased sensitivity,
specificity, accuracy, and precision. Additionally, new technologies
may provide cost savings due to reduced materials and labor. In
some cases, reduced cost translates into an increase in data quantity,
which ultimately results in improved data quality (e.g. remote or
in situ monitoring-increased frequency and distribution of sampling
and analysis). The Methods Board will be investigating new technologies
that offer the possibility of improved protection of ecological
and human health. Biological assessment methods and their data are
of current interest to review. The results of these investigations
will be integrated into the NEMI, WQDE, Accreditation, and PBS efforts.
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