Graphical Analysis – Effective Fact Based Decisions
WHAT IS GRAPHICAL ANALYSIS
Graphical analysis converts raw data into a visual picture of the data. This visual representation of the data facilitates many different analyses including a) detecting patterns and trends in data (b) prioritisation of projects (c) comparing the performances of 2 or more processes (d) detecting relationships between parameters or (d) confirming impact of a change to a process. This graphical analysis enables effective fact based decisions while also providing a valuable communication tool to other stakeholders of the process.
The Graphical Analysis program essentially transforms numbers, similar to Figure 1(a), to a visual summary, Figure 1(b) which provides a much more significant insight into the process performance. It enables you to make the right decision, based on facts, quickly. Simultaneously, the visual representation will also facilitate communication of the decision taken.

Figure 1(a) Raw Data Figure 1(b) Graphical Summary
PROGRAM AIM
The aim of this program is to provide the knowledge and skills to select, generate and analyse the appropriate graphs for new/existing data. From this analysis it is envisaged that the trainee will make good sound decisions based on the facts presented.
TARGET AUDIENCE
This course is aimed at personnel who work with data and wish to select the appropriate graph to facilitate timely and appropriate actions. This includes all sections of the workplace including finance, quality, supply chain, engineering, maintenance, and operations.
PRE REQUISITES This course assumes no/little prior experience of Graphical Analysis
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
At the end of this course, you will be able to:
1. Confirm the objective of your data analysis activity
2. Generate the following graphs using software
a) Time Series Plot
b) Scatter Plot
c) Matrix Plot
d) Histogram
e) Marginal Plot
f) Box Plot
g) Pareto
h) I-MR chart
3. Interpret the output from each chart
PROGRAM SYLLABUS
Session 1 Introduction to Descriptive Statistics
Session 2 Introduction, generation and analysis of a Time Series Plot
Session 3 Introduction, generation and analysis of a Scatter Plot
Session 4 Introduction, generation and analysis of a Matrix Plot
Session 5 Introduction of a Marginal Plot and its relationship to a Scatter Plot and Histogram
Session 6 Generation and analysis of a Marginal Plot
Session 7 Introduction, generation and analysis of a Boxplot Plot
Session 8 Introduction, generation and analysis of a Pareto Plot
Session 9 Introduction to Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Session 10 Selection of the Appropriate SPC chart for given data
Session 11 Generate and analyse an Individual and Moving Range Chart (I-MR chart)
Session 12 Assessment of Learning
ASSESSMENT
On completion of training, trainees will complete a short multiple choice exam.
SOFTWARE
Minitab and SPC for Excel are two software packages available that complete the computation of a process capability analysis. This course offers training using Minitab version 15, with no prior experience required. In the event that you have a preference for SPC for Excel, please specify in your application form, and your needs will be addressed during training. Both laptops and licensed software are supplied by Crystal Business Solutions on the training day. However, if you prefer to supply your own laptop with licensed software you are welcome to do so. Further information on both packages can be found at the following websites:
Minitab www.minitab.com/global/default.aspx?country=IE
SPC for Excel www.spcforexcel.com
ABOUT THE TRAINER
The trainer for this course is Maria Ryan, who is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt and Level 6 FETAC certified trainer. Maria has 15 years industrial experience within the Aerospace, Chemical, Medical Device and Pharmaceutical environments. Within these industries, she has worked in varying roles including Design and Manufacturing Engineer, Six Sigma Black Belt, Continuous Improvement Manager, Quality Manager and Process Excellence Leader. On completion of training, trainees are motivated to apply learning on return to the workplace. This is achieved through practical application of tools coupled with Maria’s high energy and passion for superior performance.
INCLUDED IN THE COST
1. Certificate of Attendance and Assessment
2. Venue, Refreshments and Lunch
3. Comprehensive Notes and Reference Material
4. Supply of laptops and licensed software on day of training
OTHER COURSES OF INTEREST
1. The Power of Process Capability
2. Gauge Repeatability and Reproducibility (R&R Study)
3. Problem Solving Methodology - eradicate that root cause . . .forever
4. Six Sigma Green Belt
5. Six Sigma Black Belt
PROGRAM COST: €280.00 (group rates available)
PROGRAM DURATION: 1 Day