1. A method of inspecting an edge of strip metal after the edge has been trimmed by at least one cutting device, the method comprising the following steps: providing an inspection station comprising at least one image producer; passing the trimmed edge past the inspection station; forming at least one image of the trimmed edge as it passes the inspection station; and analyzing the at least one image of the trimmed edge in real time to determine at least one quality characteristic thereof; wherein the at least one quality characteristic comprises the slit-to-shear ratio of the trimmed edge.