Product Comparison in Research: Establishing Comparable Criteria

Research-use information: This article is educational and limited to research and laboratory information. It does not provide medical, diagnostic, clinical, dosing, administration or consumption guidance.

A useful comparison begins with criteria that are relevant to the research question. Comparing labels alone can obscure differences in reference information, documentation or stated scope.

Key points to consider

  • Define the same fields for every item before you start the comparison.
  • Compare only information that is actually available and identify missing fields clearly.
  • Avoid ranking products on health, performance or treatment claims that are not supported by the record.

A practical way to use this information

A comparison table is most valuable when it makes differences and uncertainties visible rather than hiding them.

Related resource: Documentation resources.