Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/597087
24 The PCB Magazine • November 2015 by Steve Williams the rIght aPProach conSultIng Introduction Many companies get caught in data traps. They focus so heavily on cost and survival that they end up using data as merely a marketing and sales tool. In doing so, they fail to realize the true power of data: It can transform every aspect of a business. Survey Says… A recent survey by I-Connect007 revealed just how important data is to our industry, and also just how difficult it is to get accurate, ac- tionable data to drive our businesses. The key takeaway from printed circuit executives was that their greatest need is accurate, real-time process data. When you apply process metrics and dashboards to your data tools, data not only drives improvement, it can drive innova- tion. Companies struggle with data: how to get it, is it the right data, is it accurate, and is it an automated or manual process? This is where us- ing statistical analytics can help any company to improve their business, and not just in man- ufacturing but also in areas like your customer and employee hiring processes. Data should never be pigeonholed or feared. Instead, it should be used to better understand your company. By breaking down the silos that exist within your organization you will gener- ate new perspectives, ideas and performance levels as departments begin to measure their performance against the new metrics. Did you just realize that your company has fallen into a data trap? Luckily, it's easy to break free from its chains, and using statistical data will reveal just how efficient and innovative your business can be. Why Statistics? A customer has an expectation of consisten- cy in product quality, delivered on time, and at a fair and competitive price. A business owner has an expectation of making a profit through satisfied customers. A properly implemented SPC program can dramatically increase the de- gree of success in meeting these synergistic ex- pectations. Data Analytics through Statistical Techniques FeATure