The Audit Protocol.
"Trust requires a standard. This document defines the mathematical constants and hybrid-forensic processes used to generate every audit on Earthly Abode."
1. The Hybrid Pipeline (AI + Human)
We do not rely on anecdotal experience alone. We utilize the EA-Protocol v4.0, a two-stage verification system designed to eliminate bias and scale forensic analysis.
Phase 1: Data Aggregation
We synthesize distributed data points to establish a Raw Data Baseline. Sources include:
- Manufacturer Technical Sheets (PDFs) & Patents
- Historical Warranty Claims & Recall Databases
- Long-term User Forums (Reddit/Styleforum)
- Material Science Databases (Fatigue Rates)
Phase 2: Human Verification
The Lead Curator reviews AI outputs for hallucinations. We cross-reference claims against physical laws (e.g., verifying if a "Lifetime" claim aligns with the chemical degradation rate of the materials used). Final math is always human-verified.
2. Mathematical Constants
To normalize Return on Investment (ROI), all products are projected against a standard 20-year household ownership timeline, regardless of their individual lifespan.
"Lifetime" claims are mathematically capped at 100 years to prevent "Infinite ROI" anomalies in the database.
We apply a conservative 3% real discount rate to future value comparisons, accounting for the opportunity cost of capital.
3. Audit Confidence Levels
Not all data is equal. We assign a "Confidence Score" to every audit based on data density.
50+ independent user data points, verified manufacturer schematics, and 5+ years of market history. Statistical certainty is high.
20+ user data points and confirmed material specs. Common for established consumer goods.
Limited data (New Product < 2 years). Projections are based on material engineering (e.g. "Grade 5 Titanium") rather than historical failure rates.
4. The Verdict Definitions
The durable asset has a lower Cost Per Year (CPY) than the disposable baseline. Buying quality literally puts cash back in your pocket over time.
The durable asset costs within $1.00/year of the disposable baseline. The financial impact is neutral, but the waste reduction is positive.
The durable asset costs more per year than the cheap alternative. This premium is only endorsed if the Waste Reduction Factor is greater than 10x.
- Usage Variance: Lifespan estimates assume standard residential use. Commercial application voids these projections.
- Manufacturing Drift: Newer production runs may differ from the historical models audited (e.g., "Quality Fade").
- Regional Factors: Climate and local energy costs may affect true TCO.
Audits are flagged for re-evaluation when significant new failure data emerges or price points shift materially (>20%).