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Making Sense of Complex Data

Large data sets are becoming more common place as technology allows us to more easily collect and store information. But where the analysis becomes more interesting is not so much in the number of records as in the number of variables. The analysis of this complex data requires the reduction of the dimensions without reducing the information within the data. A popular method developed by Karl Pearson (1901) is Principal Component Analysis (PCA), used to reduce a complex data set to a lower dimension, giving a simplified structure which can be more easily interpreted. On the front page of the March newsletter, the discussion revolves around complex data and how PCA can be a useful methodological tool in understanding data with large numbers of variables.

The Importance of Good Data

Reliable, meaningful results are the aim of any data analysis and good analysis relies on good data. For this we need to go back to the beginning. Data Analysis Australia believes that the starting point is in the planning of the data collection itself. Data is a resource often limited by constraints of timing, budget and source. Statisticians have the expertise to use the right methodologies for every client’s unique requirements. Methodologies such as sampling theory and experimental design can be used to maximise the amount of useful information and increase efficiency. In this month’s newsletter, John Henstridge gives a snapshot of how planning the data collection itself is the important first step in ensuring meaningful results from any analysis.

Data Analysis Australia is the leading strategic information consultancy in Australia. Our exceptional skills in mathematics, statistics and data management provide a strong background for work that is often used for strategic decision making purposes. Our reputation has been built on our ability to provide workable solutions to difficult problems across all industries.

Applied Statistical Analysis

Survey Design and Analysis

Forecasting and Demography

Mathematical Modelling, Simulation and Optimisation

Spatial Analysis and Mapping

Business and Risk Analysis

Information Management and Data Mining

The strength of Data Analysis Australia lies in our flexible approach to integrating the above areas of expertise to provide cost effective and applicable solutions for clients.

Company News

Staff News

We would like to bid farewell and good luck to one of our longest serving consultants, Greg Wogan-Browne, who is off to pursue a career in the U.S.A. Greg had been with Data Analysis Australia for over 12 years, being at the forefront of our IT system in the design and management of both our network and database systems during this time. Greg not only provided imperative IT solutions for clients, but he also dealt with the never-ending requests for IT support from other consultants with a quick wit and remarkable patience. His presence will be sorely missed around the office, and we wish him and his wife Tanya every success in their new home and career stateside.

Data Analysis Australia would like to welcome Mark Glossop, who joined us in April as Software Engineer and IT Systems Manager. Mark comes to us with a background in both software development and Unix systems administration and has most recently worked as the ICT Systems Engineer for the Murchison Widefield Array radiotelescope project. He will no doubt be kept very busy managing our network and providing consultants and clients with IT support and solutions, such as handling our project management system and implementing web-based surveys.

Congratulations to Anna Munday who celebrated 10 years with Data Analysis Australia in March. As usual, the occasion was marked with cake and a song! Anna came to us from the Australian Bureau of Statistics in Canberra and quickly moved up the ranks, displaying strong leadership skills and knowledge. Anna, as both a Senior Consultant Statistician and our Consulting Manager, is a popular and valued staff member and well known by many of our clients. She has had an active role in the growth of the company in both size and expertise.

SSAI News

Congratulations to Data Analysis Australia consultants John Henstridge, Taryn Major, Alethea Rea, Kathy Haskard, Prudence Thompson and Emma Smith who have all been accepted as presenters at the 2012 Australian Statistical Conference. The Conference is organised by the Statistical Society of Australia, and will be held in Adelaide from 9 – 12 July.

Fundraising

Data Analysis Australia recently supported Surf Life Saving WA by participating in their "Wear Your Boardies to Work Day" event on Friday 16^th March. Proceeds from donations go towards rescue equipment, first aid supplies and training volunteer surf lifesavers. Staff marked the day by wearing an assortment of beach-themed gear, creating a very relaxed working environment! The photo to the right shows some of our Consultant Statisticians ‘hard at work’! Data Analysis Australia is a proud repeat supporter of this worthy cause.

Latest Newsletter

Our latest Newsletter was posted in March. If you are not already on our mailing list and would like a copy to be sent to you, please contact Angela at Data Analysis Australia.

Updated May 9, 2012