Data analysis uses data to discover and communicate patterns, trends, and insights that inform decisions. It applies descriptive and inferential statistics, statistical models, financial models, and other field-specific methods. section 1.1
An analysis usually begins with a question about performance, usability, or return on investment. Its deliverable may be a quick summary, a statistical analysis, or a presentation that gives stakeholders strategic direction. section 2.0
Data analysis commonly involves:
- Describing a dataset with descriptive statistics. section 1.1
- Inferring information with inferential statistics and statistical models. section 1.1
- Communicating findings through summaries, visualizations, or presented results. section 2.0
- Supporting questions from marketing, fundraising, programs, human resources, and executive stakeholders. section 1.3.1
Headcount and turnaround
An education technology analytics team supports marketing, fundraising, programs, and human resources. When requests increase and turnaround suffers, analysis can summarize the expected return and business value of additional headcount for executive review. section 1.3.1
