3.4 Stages of data analysis

Question 1

What do we mean when we say Identify the need?

Answer 1

• What info is needed?
• What are we trying to find out?
• Set objectives
• Need to ask the right questions to get the right info.
• Questions should be measurable, clear and concise.

Question 2

What do we mean when we say define the scope?

Answer 2

• Decide what to measure.
• Example: content, details, budget, timescales, constraints.
• You need to consider the kind of data you would need to answer your key question.
• Decide how to measure: key questions: what is your time frame? what is your unit of measurements and what factors should be included?

Question 3

What do we mean when we say identify potential sources?

Answer 3

Examples: sales figures and customer surveys

• Need to make sure information sources are suitable
• Before developing plans to collect new data, identify what data sets are already available.
• Sources can be internal and external

Question 4

What do we mean when we say source and select information?

Answer 4

Examples: determine accuracy and reliability of sources, selecting the best.

• Unsuitable info is excluded
• Collect data from existing sources first and then determine the new data that needs to be collected.
• Verify the trustworthiness and validity of the sources.
• Determine file storing and naming system - this process saves time and prevents team members from collecting the same info twice.
• Need to gather data via observation or interviews, then develop interview templates ahead of time to ensure consistency and save time.
• Keep collected data organised in a log with collection dates and add any source notes - this practice validates conclusion

Question 5

What do we mean when we say select the most appropriate tools?

Answer 5

Examples: charts, graphs, regression, trend analysis

• Number of ways to present information - charts/graphs provide visual display making patterns easier to identify.
• Regression analysis - considers how changing one of many different variables affects an outcome.
• Trend analysis - used to find patterns over time.

Question 6

What do we mean when we say process and analyse data?

Answer 6

Manipulate data in detail
- sort and filter data
- analyse trends
Answer the question set out at the start or collect more data if needed

Question 7

What do we mean when we say record and store information?

Answer 7

Example: write a report based on the results of the processing
- This is where you interpret and record your results
- As you interpret the results of your data, ask yourself key questions:
Does the data answer your original question? How?
Does the data help you defend against any objections? How?
Are there any limitations on your conclusions, any angles you havent considered?
- If all of these have been considered you are likely to have come to a productive conclusion.

Question 8

What do we mean when we say share results?

Answer 8

Example: send the report to stakeholders

- Report key findings to meet the needs of different stakeholders groups

Question 9

What is the purpose of data analysis?

Answer 9

• To find answers to questions that will be based on good quality information from carefully selected and sourced data.