The purpose of powerNest is to create optimal designs for large qPCR experiments through the exploitation
of a small pilot study.

PowerNest estimates the magnitude of confounding variation in qPCR measurements introduced during sample pre-processing.  To assess the error structure of an assay, powerNest requires a small number of technical replicates at various stages of sample-preparation.  Using pilot data obtained from these technical replicates, powerNest is able to create optimised sampling-plans for future experiments that minimise this confounding variation.

Once the pilot data has been input, using the pilot design as a starting point, powerNest allows the experimenter to explore the effects of modifications to this experimental design on the expected total error of the assay.  When given the financial cost of replicates at each level, powerNest will calculate a cost-optimal sampling-plan, delivering an experiment design that will minimise processing error and maximise the statistical resolution of the future assay.