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June 2012
How to deal with and more readily understand complex data is explored in this month’s newsletter.  The front page article looks at Principal Component Analysis (PCA), providing some background information and how and where it might be used to analyse complex data sets.  The idea is to reduce large numbers of variables into a small number of meaningful dimensions.  The case study continues the theme with an example of how we used PCA in a segmentation analysis to identify types of family groups and individuals based on their financial behaviour.  A complex data set from a 140 page questionnaire with nearly 800 variables was supplied.  The case study outlines the techniques used to create a robust solution for the client including factor analysis and cluster analysis.  This month we introduce one of our new staff members, Alethea Rea from New Zealand.
December 2011
There is so much data collected and stored today, but is this data good data?  Can you be sure that the data you have is the right amount from the right sources to give you the accuracy required to deliver meaningful results?  In this newsletter, Dr John Henstridge explores the idea that planning the data is the first step in any analysis and discusses how statisticians are equipped with the knowledge and tools required to provide assurance in the investment of the data collected.  One of these methodologies is ‘Experimental Design’ which aims to ensure that a data design is appropriately balanced to maximise the efficiency of any analysis.  Dr Kathy Haskard, who recently joined Data Analysis Australia as an experienced Senior Consultant Statistician outlines the process and many benefits of using an ‘Experimental Design’ in the Analytical Ideas Article.  She cleverly uses the AFL football draw as a way of explaining how and why it is used.  Kathy is profiled in this month’s newsletter having had a wide and varied career as a statistician.