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Most of us have heard of a backward way of completing a task, or doing something in the conventionally wrong order, described as “putting the cart before the horse.” That’s because a horse pulling a cart is much more efficient than a horse pushing a cart. This saying may be especially true in the world of statistics.

Focusing on a statistical tool or analysis before checking out the condition of your data is one way you may be putting the cart before the horse. You might find yourself trying to force your data to fit an analysis, particularly when the data have not been set up properly. It’s far more efficient to first make sure your data are reliable and then allow your questions of interest to guide you to the right analysis.

Spending a little quality time with your data up front can save you from wasting a lot of time on an analysis that either can’t work or can’t be trusted.

As a quality practitioner, you’re likely to be involved in many activities: establishing quality requirements for external suppliers, monitoring product quality, reviewing product specifications and ensuring they are met, improving process efficiency, and many more.

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