The Future of Statistical Software. Proceedings of a Forum--Panel on Guidelines for Statistical Software (Washington, D.C., February 22, 1991)

This book presents guidelines for the development and evaluation of statistical software designed to ensure minimum acceptable statistical functionality as well as ease of interpretation and use. It consists of the proceedings of a forum that focused on three qualities of statistical software: richness--the availability of layers of output sophistication, guidance--how the package helps a user do an analysis and do it well, and exactness--determining if the output is "correct" and when and how to warn of potential problems. The Panel on Guidelines for Statistical Software was organized in 1990 to document, assess, and prioritize problem areas regarding quality and reliability of statistical software; present prototype guidelines in high priority areas; and make recommendations for further research and discussion. This document provides the following papers presented at the Panel's public forum for gathering material for its deliberations from a wide range of statistical scientists from academe, industry, and government: (1) "Morning Session Opening Remarks" (B. Ryan); (2) "Richness for the One-Way ANOVA Layout" (K. E. Muller); (3) "Serendipitous Data and Future Statistical Software" (P. F. Velleman); (4) "Morning Discussion"; (5) "Afternoon Session Opening Remarks " (F. Young); (6) "An Industry View" (A. Kirsch); (7) "Guidance for One-Way ANOVA" (W. DuMouchel); (8) "Incorporating Statistical Expertise into Data Analysis Software" (D. Pregibon); (9) "Afternoon Discussion"; and (10) "Closing Remarks" (W. Eddy). Three appendices give brief descriptions of the speakers, position statements of some participants, and a list of all forum participants. (SLD) Presents guidelines for the development and evaluation of statistical software designed to ensure minimum acceptable statistical functionality as well as ease of interpretation and use. This book consists of the proceedings of a forum that focused on three qualities of statistical software: richness; guidance; and exactness. Panel On Guidelines For Statistical Software, Committee On Applied And Theoretical Statistics, Board On Mathematical Sciences, Commission On Physical Sciences, Mathematics, And Applications, National Research Council. Includes Bibliographical References.