Although the QAS define standards of operation, each is capable of interpretation as to how it can be met. For that reason, the FBI convened a working group to develop a consensus checklist to use when auditing against the standards.

The checklist, which was first published in October 2000 and updated many times since then, contains extensive discussion for most standards describing what is required to demonstrate compliance. For example, brief mention was made previously of the education and experience required by a technician, an analyst, and a technical leader. The consensus checklist provides specific and detailed elaboration of what is required to satisfy the QAS standards for education of personnel.

The checklist is the primary reference source for detail on what constitutes consensus best practice in DNA testing.

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