A statistical study was conducted on the microscopic method of analyzing collagen shrinkage-temperature (T_S) to determine its value for studies relating to the care of biological research collections. Initial T_S, T_S at time of birefringence change, final T_S, and T_S range were variables found to be most useful for analysis. Variations of T_S measurements attributed to sampling location, sample preparation, and preservation treatments of samples were examined. This study shows that these factors do affect T_S measurements, demonstrating the need for standard procedures and the usefulness of adequate sampling. The amount of variability may provide a mechanism of interpreting the thoroughness of preservation treatments of collagen.