It is possible to devise calibration and validation protocols that enable the ICH guidelines to conform to the specialized requirements of the NIR method of analysis. Some of the required characteristics of evaluation specified by the guidelines, such as accuracy and repeatability, can be applied directly, just as with any other analytical method. Other characteristics are adapted through the novel use of specialized statistics, or through the use of creative methods and procedures to match the recommendations of the guidelines to the unique and specialized requirements of the NIR method.