Introduction of a new Rapid Microbial Method (RMM) requires a full validation. The purpose of the validation is to prove that equivalent or better results are obtained using the new method when compared to the compendia. One assumes that the result obtained with the compendial method is absolute and is the “Gold Standard” by which to compare the new test. In reality, the compendial method exhibits a number of weaknesses that compromise the integrity of the validation. The standard requires…