Statistical and Graphical Research Methods: State of the Art

Abstract

Recent developments in software products have provided researchers with an opportunity for more effective data analysis and presentation of findings. In addition to expanding researchers' options for data analysis and presentation, the easy-to-use interfaces of new software products will likely decrease the amount of time spent in and improve the results of such activities. This paper discusses the capabilities of several statistics and graphics packages, file conversion software, and expert systems for study design and data analysis. In order to provide researchers flexibility in moving from data analysis to presentation of results, particular attention is paid to the linkages among statistical and graphical packages. By bringing these methodological advances to researchers' attention, it is expected that the research enterprise will be enhanced as the researcher finds greater freedom to display research results graphically. Keywords: computing, statistical packages, data graphics, expert systems.