Can Excel® be used for gauge R&R study based on the analysis of variance (Anova)?

The Analysis of Variance (Anova) method, alongside the range method, is widely used to conduct Gauge Repeatability and Reproducibility (Gauge R&R) studies for measurement systems. While Anova provides more precise and robust statistical insights compared to the range-based approach, it is often perceived as more complex due to the necessity of calculating sum of squares, mean squares, and performing F-tests. Furthermore, this method can lead to misleading conclusions if the results—especially residuals—are not thoroughly and correctly analyzed. Despite its analytical complexity, the Anova method can be effectively implemented using spreadsheet tools such as Excel®. Excel® offers a flexible and accessible environment to perform rapid recalculations when input data are modified. In this paper, we demonstrate how to conduct a Gauge R&R study using the Anova approach within Excel®. The dual objective of this work is (i) to provide a user-friendly implementation within Excel®, and (ii) to enable rigorous and accurate interpretation of the statistical results produced.