Decisions from Data: From Small Samples to Big Data

Data is increasing in the world at a rate estimated to be equivalent to a shelf of books 30 million miles long every few minutes, and the rate is increasing. Decisions, which affect the future for all of us, are necessarily based on past data, and better decisions demand better use of data. This book is not a text book: it is a guide to the statistical processing of data, whether it be for small every-day judgements or for major decisions with potentially serious consequences. Emphasis is given to the ways in which we are frequently misled by statistical results. Those involved in all aspects of business and industry who need to assess statistical data, or commission statistical investigations, will find this book invaluable. No previous knowledge of statistical processing is assumed, thus ensuring that any reader simply wishing to have a better understanding of statistics will not be disappointed.