Understanding Sensitivity Within Measurement Uncertainty

This webinar follows on from the recently delivered “Introduction to Measurement Uncertainty webinar” and explores the concept of sensitivity within measurement uncertainty, building on the principles outlined in ISO/IEC Guide 98‑1. The session aims to help participants understand how uncertainties in input variables propagate to affect the final measured result, and how sensitivity coefficients quantify this relationship. 

Using practical examples, including the calculation of mass from volume and density and a storage tank volume case study, the webinar demonstrates how individual uncertainty sources contribute to overall measurement uncertainty. Sensitivity is introduced as the measure of how strongly an output depends on each input, highlighting its importance in identifying dominant contributors to uncertainty. 

Both analytical (partial differentiation) and numerical methods are presented for calculating sensitivity coefficients, enabling participants to select appropriate approaches for simple and complex systems. The webinar emphasises good practice in uncertainty evaluation, including the use of standard uncertainties, consistent units, and careful application of formulas at the correct operating conditions. 

By the end of the webinar, attendees will have a clearer understanding of how to calculate and interpret sensitivities, apply them in uncertainty budgets, and improve confidence in measurement results. 
 

Who is the webinar intended for? 

Measurement technicians and engineers. Anyone with an interest in measurement uncertainty.

speaker

Colin Lightbody, Head of Flow Measurement Consultancy, TÜV SÜD
Colin has worked in the flow measurement industry for 30 years in field support, marketing, product development, metrology approvals and as a flow measurement consultant for international energy companies. He has developed patented diagnostic monitoring and analysis techniques for ultrasonic flowmeters and has written several technical papers for international flow measurement workshops. He continues to contribute to the development of industry standards via participation on British Standards institute committees and Chairs the Global Flow Measurement Workshop and ASMEA Flow Measurement Workshop committees.