Automated Data Analysis National Center for Immunization & Respiratory Diseases Influenza Division Nishan Ahmed Data Management Training Cairo, Egypt April , 2013

Why Automated Data Analysis (ADA) What does the ADA process involve Preparation Steps Which Applications can be used Software Examples to set up ADA Software Considerations Basic requirements to develop ADA Benefits of a well developed ADA system Objectives

To simplify and ease routine data analysis To standardize analysis output Uniform report Replicable To make reporting efficient To make sharing of information easier To make data management processes easier and effective Enable frequent runs for data checks Catch errors quickly Up-to-date editing Quick intervention – error pattern Why Automate Data Analysis

Plan analysis needs in advance of data collection Identify data needed for each process Plan and create export or import table templates – i.e Merged tables Verify desired data outputs Create standardized routine reports Create queries in advance Write codes in advance What does the ADA process involve

Understand the study objectives Identify routine data outputs Identify required graphs and summary tables Understand the purpose of each report Identify core information & variables required Outline the data management objectives Evaluation of data quality Enhancement of data quality Tracking data input activities Identification of emerging odd patterns Preparation Steps

Routine and Basic ADA Database Software: Excel Access EPI Info Basic to Advanced ADA Statistical Analysis Software: STATA SAS R statistics Software Examples to setup ADA

Database software capabilities: Capture information Queries Advanced Code Reporting Summary Tables Graphs Statistical software focuses on Data acquisition and sharing Basic and advanced statistical analysis Output and reporting Which Applications can be used

Spread sheet format has limited application Simple tables can be created easily Has built-in formulas that make it easy to perform simple calculations Time consuming to set up table links Links have limitations Macros are available Limited number of columns/rows allowed Better for smaller databases Software Considerations - Excel

Database application Includes a easy to use guided set up for queries and reports Advanced query capability available Built-in formulas make it easy to perform simple calculations VBA coding – created behind the scenes for tables, queries, reports User can write custom macros to perform specific tasks Limited scope for data manipulation Limited number of columns within table format Software Considerations - ACCESS

Can perform basic functions Good table merging applications Import/Export functions compatible with most applications Code available to create various report outputs Able to analyse large data sets Automated functions may be set for reporting as well as sending an automated Simple and advanced macros can be written Training is essential but support websites are available Unlimited scope for advancements Software Considerations - Statistical

Problem solver and constant learner Search websites for formulas and guidelines Willingness to ask for help when it’s needed Practice Logical insight and attention to detail Creating queries Creating & understanding desired output Additional helpful skills Statistical background Descriptive Stats Summary Statistics Coding skills (i.e. SQL) Coding translation ability and adaptation Basic Requirements to Develop ADA

Less time spent Recreating queries to find relevant data Recreating reports Reduced effort in reporting data to collaborators and stakeholders Detect data inconsitencies more quickly Perform more consistent analysis Better understanding of your data Increase data re-use Opportunity to standardize codes for advanced analysis Benefits

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