Analysis aims to have a better understanding of the context by conducting a study in detail. Thorough analysis is critical to conceive and engage with the frame of reference.
Causal Analysis
Causal analysis is used to find the root cause of the problem. This method seeks for explanations of “Why” questions. It is important to ask “Why” eagerly one after another as each question is covered by a logical response.
Example:
“Test effectiveness of our product got worse for the last quarter.”
- Why did the test effectiveness reports show bad performance graphics?
“More bugs than earlier periods have been reported in production.”
- Why did we have more bugs in production compared to earlier periods?
“We could not go for enough test coverage.”
- Why didn’t we do enough test coverage?
“We do not have enough manpower to handle so much test runs manually.”
- Why don’t we have enough manpower then?
“The company has been cutting costs lately. We cannot afford it anymore.”
Descriptive Analysis
Descriptive analysis method follows a procedure that collects sample data based on various sampling strategies and reports the outcome in a descriptive and interpretable manner, such as charts and graphics. Its main purpose is to exhibit the result set of the analysis as comprehensive as possible.
Exploratory Analysis
Lack of data might not let the analyst continue the study any further. In order to assemble more information and maintain the analysis, exploratory approach can be taken.
Exploratory approach is a fast, low-cost way to discern whether or not the study is worth investigating by discovering patterns, trends, anomalies and such… Even though this practical solution comes with a set of concerns due to validity, it can also be a powerful tool to form the big picture of the story.
Inferential Analysis
Inferential analysis can be built upon both estimations and hypothesis. It uses sampling strategies and statistical methods to draw a conclusion. Its main purpose is to make an inference about the problem.
Predictive Analysis
Predictive analysis takes the conventional data collecting and interpretation approach one step further and makes predictions about the prospective occurrences of a historical reference.
