Confidence Ranking
Definition
A classification scheme that assigns each detected anomaly a confidence level based on how many independent methods detected it and how well its geometry matches the expected target. Common categories: confirmed (excavated), inferred (two or more methods agree), possible (one method only).
- Field
- Geophysical survey, buried-target detection
- Top tier
- Confirmed (excavated)
- Middle tier
- Inferred (two or more methods agree)
- Lowest tier
- Possible (one method only)
- Purpose
- Prioritise which anomalies get excavated first
Common questions
Why combine multiple geophysical methods instead of relying on one?+
Each method (ground-penetrating radar, magnetometry, electrical resistivity) responds to different physical properties and produces different false positives. Agreement across methods on the same anomaly location substantially reduces the chance the signal is geology, debris, or noise rather than a genuine buried target.
Can a possible-tier anomaly still be worth excavating?+
Yes. Ranking sets excavation priority under limited time and resources, not a threshold for exclusion. A single-method anomaly with a strong geometric match to the expected target profile can still justify investigation, just later in the sequence than confirmed or inferred anomalies.
Related terms
- Decision Framework
- A structured protocol for selecting geophysical methods based on documented site characteristics (soil type, target depth, cultural noise) before fieldwork begins, with...
- False Positive
- A test result that indicates the presence of a target analyte when it is absent. In forensic serology this may mean incorrectly...
- GIS Co-Registration
- Assigning consistent spatial coordinates to all survey datasets so that anomalies from different instruments can be overlaid and compared at matching ground...
- Ground-Truthing
- The physical investigation (probing, test pitting, or full excavation) of a geophysical anomaly to determine whether it represents a genuine forensic target....
- Site Datum
- A fixed reference point, established by total station or RTK-GPS, to which all survey grid positions are tied. Ensures that anomaly positions...