Statistics and data analysis are fast becoming the norm for conducting internal audits and performance reviews. In certain industry domains such as marketing, research, financial services and medical or clinical research, statistics are nearly indispensible. This significance stems from the immense power of statistics in analyzing data and in achieving important growth and efficiency objectives. We all know how critical it is for businesses and researchers alike to achieve robust, accurate results that can lead to meaningful results, interpretations and business decisions. The problem lies in the fact that in many cases, the necessary skills to harness the power of statistics are simply not available or accessible. This is where a statistical consultant can come in handy.
A statistical consultant can play a pivotal role in a research project as statistical consultants are trained to produce high quality results. A statistical consultant is a professional who provides statistical tools and advice, and who has the know-how to implement these tools in a project. Ideally, a statistical consultant should be able to step into diverse settings, evaluate the scenario and make recommendations as to which methods are most suitable for data collection, analysis and interpretation of results. Depending on the need, a statistical consultant may offer an array of services to suit different budgets and goals, ranging from hundreds, to thousands, to a few million or more.
The application of a statistical consultant is frequently within an academic environment such as a university. More importantly, a statistical consultant is valuable on all levels of academia. In other words, it is not just with major research projects that statistical consultants are involved. Rather, statistical consultants are invaluable on a micro level as well. In such a setting, a statistical consultant is hired with the purpose of helping graduate students and faculty members with statistical issues related to their research. This encompasses subjects outside the normal statistics-related subjects as there are other subjects that may, in whole or part, involve statistical analysis. Besides lending a helping hand to students and faculty members, a statistical consultant can also provide consultation on statistical methodologies and research design. They can even help in writing up data analysis plans and results of statistical analysis, as well as prepare for theses presentations and proposals.
A professional statistical consultant can also provide immense support for businesses by helping them take charge of their internal data flow. Thus, a statistical consultant can extract meaningful information from internal data and can thereby help a business be more successful. Overall, be it an academic, research or business exercise, the key benefits of using a statistical consultant is the ability to have a high level of skill in a critical field, on an ad-hoc basis. In short, it is like having an expert come in and do the job needed, without having to worry about payroll or other issues.
Hiring a statistical consultant should be a well thought-out business decision, rather than a “make-up” decision to appease shareholders or upper management. With a sound plan and real commitment with overall buy-in, a statistical consultant can do wonders. Of course, a caveat is that the statistical consultant must actually fit the bill in terms of skills, personality and abilities. The first step is to choose a consultant who is professional, responsive and sensitive to your needs and who is able to communicate effectively. Of course, skills and knowledge are a must, in addition to experience, which can never be too great. He or she must listen and understand your problem effectively and devise a strategy that not only works, but works in a desirable manner without too much collateral damage. In other words, it is important to hire someone who understands both the quantitative and the qualitative aspects of business or academia—one who is able to deliver results while seeing the larger picture of what you want to achieve and how exactly, you want to achieve it.
All in all, a statistical consultant can be an excellent asset for projects involving statistical analysis and design. Whether it is a small scale business or a very large one, statistical consultants can help provide the necessary inputs and expertise to take your business to the next level or land that million dollar patent. It is important to remember, however, that it is not a panacea, and a statistical consultant can only provide the tools and guidance. The actions or steps still have to be implemented and this goes to underline the importance of commitment. In an academic setting, the right statistical consultant will provide the necessary guidance and advice, but never attempt to sideline ethics and standards of academic honesty. Thus, your work will be your work, though your final outcome will have been both expedited and made easier with the invaluable help, guidance and support of a statistical consultant.
