Principles and Procedures for Putting across Business Statistics Reports to Executives

Abstract

IN ITS BROADEST interpretation our present problem is how to present the results of research effort to the executive. Let us first narrow the statement of the problem. 1. This paper is not concerned with ways and means of putting across commercially published statistical reports. 2. No consideration is given to problems incident to presenting weekly, monthly, quarterly, or on any other time basis an intricate system of chart control for the chief executives of a corporation to follow and by which to direct the activities of their organization. 3. No consideration will be given to the problems incident to presenting all manner of business statistics to all manner of business executives. There may be other sub-classifications of this broad topic which should be eliminated, as this discussion is limited to the principles and practices of presenting specific problem analyses to the executives of a particular corporation, no matter what its corporate title may be. Statistics and statistical methodology are limited to data available and to various manipulations that the trained research man will adopt in attempting to reach sound generalizations based upon a multiple number of observations so that a solution of some definite confusion or uncertainty may be presented to management. Statistical analyses are not ends in themselves but are a means whereby the trained analyst seeks to find a clear-cut path through the fog of uncertainty. The Receivers. Business executives make decisions about the best course of action at particular times when confronted with particular problems. They are eager for help in finding the solution of many of the problems which must be encountered daily. Their objective is to eliminate the pure chance element and reduce uncertainty to a minimum. The very existence of a commercial research department on a corporation payroll is vivid testimony that the executives of that corporation desire whatever assistance research men may be able to give to management in selecting proper courses of action at the right time. There is an obvious desire for the results of statistical and economic analysis. The audience, therefore, is receptive regarding the results of analyses of problems.