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CSQA FIELD GUIDE / Calibration

Calibration: Local vs Online Tools

Local Calibration tools are more private and work offline; online tools save installation but files leave your device.

Updated 2026-11-01About 3 minLocal test
Quick answer

Local Calibration tools are more private and work offline; online tools save installation but files leave your device. Calibration fixes the problem of two managers scoring the same ticket differently.

Why it matters

Use local for sensitive files; online is fine for small temporary ones.

Use 5–10 samples, score independently before discussion.

Step by step

  1. Define QA goals and observable behaviors before building a giant scorecard.
  2. Stratify samples by shift, channel and risk so they represent real problems.
  3. Calibrate scoring boundaries before ranking or performance decisions.
  4. Attribute issues to knowledge, process, system or people before choosing fixes.

Common mistakes

  • Scoring without calibration makes managers incomparable.
  • Sampling only easy tickets biases the result.
  • Using QA as punishment makes agents hide context.
  • Looking only at CSAT while ignoring resolution and rework.

Checklist

  • Scorecard has behavioral anchors.
  • Sampling has stratification rules.
  • Calibration records disputed samples.
  • Issues have owners and review dates.

Key facts

  • Use 5–10 samples, score independently before discussion.
  • Resolve disputes against scorecard anchors, not persuasion.
  • Update scorecard version and example library after calibration.

FAQ

Local or online tools for Calibration?

Local Calibration tools are more private and work offline; online tools save installation but files leave your device. Calibration fixes the problem of two managers scoring the same ticket differently.

How long does it take?

Usually 1-3 minutes; for intermittent issues, run 30 seconds and retest elsewhere.

Is data uploaded?

Runs locally and does not upload video/audio; extensions may still read the page.

Source: MaestroQA calibration