Free-choice profiling explained

Free-choice profiling is a method for determining the quality of a thing by having a large number of subjects experience (view, taste, read, etc.) it and then allowing them to describe the thing in their own words, as opposed to posing them a set of "yes-no-maybe" questions. All of the descriptions are then analyzed to determine a "consensus configuration" of qualities, usually through Generalized Procrustes analysis (GPA) or Multiple factor analysis (MFA).[1]

Free-choice profiling first emerged in 1984 but the original published model has been modified by researchers into variations that are more applicable to their particular use.[2] For example, a technique employed by Jean Marc Sieffermann combined it with flash profiling, specifically using the free-profiling strategy of individual panelist vocabulary generation.[3] The method allows panelists to freely develop their own descriptors and scales.[4] A study show that free-choice profiling can provide more accurate sample maps compared with other methodologies such as project mapping and free sorting in the area of sensory characterization.[5]

Dr Françoise Wemelsfelder is a well known scientist who has done extensive research in this field.

Sources

Notes and References

  1. A comparison between GPA and MFA, based on sensory data, is a chapter of a recent book: Pagès Jérôme (2014). Multiple Factor Analysis by Example Using R. Chapman & Hall/CRC The R Series London 272 p
  2. Book: Guidelines for Sensory Analysis in Food Product Development and Quality Control. Carpenter. Roland P.. Lyon. David H.. Hasdell. Terry A.. 2000. Aspen Publishers, Inc.. 0834216426. Gaithesburg, MD. 48.
  3. Book: Sensory Evaluation of Food: Principles and Practices. Lawless. Harry T.. Heymann. Hildegarde. 2010. Springer Science & Business Media. 9781441964878. New York. 252.
  4. Book: Nollet, Leo M. L.. Handbook of Meat, Poultry and Seafood Quality. 2012-05-29. John Wiley & Sons. 9781118352458. en.
  5. Book: Novel Techniques in Sensory Characterization and Consumer Profiling. Varela. Paula. Ares. Gastón. 2014. CRC Press. 9781466566309. Boca Raton, FL. 373.