TEST INFORMATION
TEST OVERVIEW
TEST DESCRIPTION
1. Known Outsole: Participants are presented with known outsole samples to serve as baseline references for comparison and analysis.
2. Known Standards: Four known impressions are provided to participants, representing standard references typically obtained from suspects or individuals related to the case. Each RS&A Footwear Comparison PT includes two known impressions for each shoe, enabling thorough comparison against questioned impressions.
3. Questioned Impressions: Each test includes a minimum of six unknown footwear impressions sourced from crime scenes or evidence. These impressions are meticulously photographed from various angles, including heel, toe, and overall light directions. Participants are tasked with scrutinizing these question impressions against known exemplars to determine potential matches or exclusions.
Acetate Overlays: Participants receive acetate overlays as part of the test materials, facilitating detailed comparison by allowing superimposition of question impressions over known standards. This aids in the comprehensive analysis of key features.
The Footwear Comparison Proficiency Test assesses participants' ability to accurately identify and analyze footwear impressions, as well as their proficiency in reaching conclusive determinations regarding matches or exclusions. Through the integration of question and known impressions, coupled with acetate overlays, participants are challenged to apply their expertise in forensic footwear examination to realistic scenarios.
TEST DEMO PACKET (pdf)
Sample PDF Includes:
- Instruction sheet.
- Test images (latent & known).
- Manufacturer Information report.
- Individual report.
- Advanced summary report.
OPTIONS & PRICING
Media Options and Pricing
SHIPPING
- United States = Free Shipping!
- North American (Canada & Mexico) = $25.00 flat rate shipping
- All Other Continents = $50.00 flat rate shipping
Shipping charges are applied during checkout.
Avoid all shipping charges by choosing an Online download option when available!
TESTING PROCESS
STEP 1 - COMPLETE YOUR PROFICIENCY TEST WITHIN THE TIME GIVEN
RS&A announces the dates for all proficiency testing cycles, which encompass the deadline for entering results.
STEP 2 - ENTER YOUR RESULTS IN THE RS&A PT PORTAL
Through the RS&A PT Portal, administrators of proficiency tests can allocate their purchased PTs based on the anticipated distribution dates for the respective test cycle. Participants will be notified once a proficiency test has been assigned to them. Upon logging into the portal, participants can submit their test results along with any comments they wish to provide.
STEP 3 - MANUFACTURER'S INFORMATION REPORT
The RS&A Manufacturer's Information Report outlines the expected response set by RS&A during both internal and external pre-distribution testing.
STEP 4 - INDIVIDUAL RESULTS REPORT
The RS&A Individual Report contrasts the results submitted by participants with the expected results set by RS&A.
STEP 5 - ADVANCED SUMMARY RESULTS REPORT
RS&A is dedicated to continuous improvement and the provision of high-quality forensic products and services, with particular emphasis on proficiency testing. We recognize the critical importance of properly utilizing published Proficiency Testing Results, as they can either support or undermine the credibility of impression evidence sciences. Often, these results are utilized by various stakeholders, including defense attorneys, to challenge forensic identification specialists.
A longstanding challenge in this domain has been the absence of essential contextual data accompanying raw proficiency test results. Without insights into participants' credentials, experience, and agency processes, published results lack meaningful interpretation. To address this, participants are required to complete a brief online demographics survey before submitting their test results. The information gathered, combined with data from other participants, will empower RS&A to furnish the forensic identification industry with comprehensive insights long overdue.
By ensuring that published data is not only accurate but also contextually rich, we strive to enhance the integrity and relevance of proficiency testing outcomes for all stakeholders.