IFSTA: Analysis (Ch 25)

Question 1

Analysis: USFA Data analysis handbook definition

Answer 1

Transforming raw data into information, information into understanding, and understanding into decisions.

Question 2

Analysis: Types

Answer 2

• Cost/Benefit
• Process
• Policy
• Program
• Needs
• Risk

Question 3

Analysis: Steps

Answer 3

• Determine each of the components that compose the process/program
• Follow a systematic process each time an analysis is made, using the same steps
• Remain objective, don’t draw conclusions until all facts are known
• Review various components and look for patterns or relationships
• Seek advice of others through invovlement and discussions
• View program/process from perspective of those affected (providers and customers)
• Take a break from analysis to allow a fresh view to develop
• Develop at least two approaches to the problem, which generates minimum of 3 options: best, compromise, or status quo.

Question 4

Evaluation: definition

Answer 4

Appraisal of persons, projects, or organizations in relation to stated criteria or standards.

Question 5

Statistics: 3 definitions

Answer 5

• Branch of mathematics concerned with collection of numerical facts
• A set of concepts, rules, and procedures used to analyze numberical information and organize and illustrate it in the form of tables, graphs, and charts.
• Data that can be represented numerically.

Question 6

Statistics: 3 reasons to rely on them

Answer 6

• Gain insight into fire and emergency service needs
• Improve resource allocation for providing service
• Identify training needs

Question 7

3 methods of gathering information

Answer 7

• Survey
• Observation
• Experiment

Question 8

Types of charts used to display statistics

Answer 8

• Histogram (height = freq/value of variable)
• Bar chart
• Column Chart
• Line Chart
• Pie Chart
• Dot Chart
• Pictograms (maps)
• Hot Charts