Mittaustavat

Mittaustavat, or measurement methods, are the procedures and techniques used to determine quantities in science, engineering, and everyday measurements. They encompass how data are collected, how instruments are used, and how results are processed and reported.

Measurements can be categorized in several ways: direct measurements such as length with a ruler; indirect measurements inferred from other quantities (e.g., volume from mass and density); qualitative versus quantitative methods; static versus dynamic, destructive versus nondestructive, contact versus non‑contact techniques; and primary methods that provide SI traceability versus secondary methods that are calibrated against standards.

Important concepts include accuracy (closeness to true value), precision (repeatability), bias, and measurement uncertainty. Ensuring traceability to national or international standards via calibration certificates and reference materials is central to quality and comparability. The measurement process typically involves selecting an appropriate method, following a documented procedure, performing measurements under controlled conditions, and evaluating uncertainty and data quality.

Standardization and governance: metrology as a discipline; guidelines such as the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM); laboratory accreditation under ISO/IEC 17025; and the use of reference materials and calibration laboratories.

Applications span natural and social sciences, industry and environmental monitoring: length and weight in manufacturing, temperature and pressure monitoring, imaging-based or sensor-based measurements, clinical diagnostics, and environmental sampling.