Working with a statistician is a team effort. Clients can improve the effectiveness of our interactions by preparing for each stage of the research cycle as follows:
Design of Research
- Discuss with the statistician your research objectives, literature search findings, study design ideas, proposed measures, and sample size ideas
- Ensure your research has the applicable approvals (e.g., IRB)
- Seek approval for the statistician’s scope of work and costs
Data Collection
- Review the design, formatting, and coding of spreadsheets with the statistician before entering data
- Communicate regularly with the statistician to resolve questions
- Review your data for accuracy before sending it to the statistician
- Follow applicable rules for data sharing and de-identification
Data Analysis
- Collaborate with the statistician during the analysis process
- Discuss findings and statistical methods with the statistician
- Interpret the findings in the context of your specialty and draw conclusions
- Consider the impact of biases and confounders on your conclusions
Publication
- Write as much as possible before contacting the statistician for help during the publication phase
- Request the statistician’s help to write statistical methods sections, create tables and figures
- Review final drafts of abstracts and manuscripts with the statistician prior to submission
- Submit publications and respond to reviewers’ questions