Establishing and Duplicating a Gold Standard

摘要

A "gold standard" is a benchmark measure in the product development process. It is the product against which all prototypes will be compared. It represents the flavor, texture, color, viscosity, and overall appearance that the product development team attempts to replicate. It should achieve the highest customer satisfaction, since it is a made-from-scratch, homemade-type recipe. In preparing the gold standard, a well-trained, experienced professional chef uses classical cooking techniques and ingredients similar to those used in a restaurant or at home. The closer the chef can prepare a gold standard with manufacturing ingredients and processes in mind, the smaller the bridge between the gold standard and the formulation of the prototype. This is where a research chef is valuable. Understanding the manufacturing process and culinary arts is a real skill that can enhance the development process.