Picture this! Multivariate analysis in organizational assessment

Abstract

Finding the proper level of analysis for quantitative data is a problem in organizational assessment. First, the use of simple descriptive statistics often fails to adequately portray relationships between variables. Second, although inferential statistics can summarize data and better describe the relationships between variables, these techniques are often based on a-priori decisions regarding specific group comparisons within the data. Such a-priori decisions may be inconsistent with respondent views. On the other hand, multivariate methods which overcome the previously cited limitations and allow an exploration of the structure of the data tend to be quite complex and difficult for clients to understand and interpret. Some multivariate methods can portray results in a more graphical form or perceptual map. This approach to analysis allows both the clients and stakeholders to “picture” the results of complex statistical analysis. One such technique and the focus of the current paper is Multidimensional Unfolding (MDU). The intent is to highlight the utility of mapping data and advocate further applications of mapping studies in analyzing and understanding organizational issues.