This guide will highlight resources available to APUS students, faculty, and staff on business data and statostocs resources.
Use the tabs to the left to navigate throughout the guide.
Who collects data?
If you’re looking for a quick number, you want a statistic. A statistic will answer “how much” or “how many”. A statistic repeats a pre-defined observation about reality.
Statistics are the results of data analysis. They usually are presented in the form of a table or chart.
If you want to understand a phenomenon, you want data. Data can be analyzed and interpreted using statistical procedures to answer “why” or “how.” Data is used to create new information and knowledge.
Raw data is the direct result of research that was conducted as part of a study or survey. It is a primary source. It usually comes in the form of a digital data set that can be analyzed using software such as Excel, SPSS, SAS, and so on.
If you visit an organization’s website you may be able to locate the information and if not, here are some of the main types of producers of statistical information:
Important! For the most part, these and similar resources will provide or direct you to statistical tables and publications. By looking at the source notes of a statistical table or noting the publisher of a report you can identify producers of data.
Consider the range of resources available to you and make an intelligent choice on where to search.
Think about where to search and which keywords to use. A targeted search can often yield fruitful results.
Books on statistical publications will always include the keyword "statistics" in the subject information. For example:
United States -- Statistics
Look for statistics reported in journal, news, and magazine articles. If they report a source, be sure to follow it up!
By searching periodical indexes, you can determine if anyone has conducted research into your area of inquiry. You may turn up a journal article with statistical tables on your topic, or you may find out that you have chosen such a unique topic that little to no research exists in that area. Maybe you can be flexible with your topic and find a similar substitute.
Here are just a few recommendations & be sure to check the links listed in Search Strategy #2:listed above!
Knowing when to call in reinforcements is important.
Keep in mind that one possible reason nothing is turning up is that the statistic or data you need is simply not available! Be flexible and consider alternative measures.