Beyond the Number

It is the goal of data analysts, data scientists and statisticians is to analyse data, guiding decisions for the public good. This work involves communication in a simple and understandable manner.

A major difficulty with the use (or misuse) of statistics in workplaces and public debate is the ongoing question for The Number. Ed Humpherson, Director General of the UK Statistics Authority, described this phenomenon:

Statisticians are often asked for The Number, the single point estimate that resolves an issue — or can dropped into a briefing or speech as it if was just…