ABSTRACT
Data analysis is an essential part of a metrics system. While the metrics data could be a process indicator, the hidden patterns are revealed only by analysis of data. Traditionally, data analysis is considered a tedious process dependent on rigorous statistical techniques. It is customary to brand data analysis as a “scientific method,” not in the style of the practitioner. Furthermore, the cumbersome nature of some of the statistical techniques deters people. Data analysis can be made simple and interesting by using appropriate tools and an effective approach. The tool can be as handy as a spreadsheet with its statistical functions and built-in macros. There are several approaches to effective data analysis; we present here one such approach that reduces process behavior to three dimensions and has a strong bearing on visual techniques.
