gms | German Medical Science

This talk introduces and discusses aims, elements, and outputs of initial data analyses (IDA) in the scientific research process. The key aim of IDA is to facilitate responsible and valid scientific analyses with a targeted data set. It therefore typically precedes research question driven statistical analyses. The most common form of IDA occurs as part of a single study with a clear research plan and a single data collection/entry process. IDA may also take place without reference to prespecified research question. Several data steps may be distinguished in the IDA process: (1) metadata setup to properly conduct all following IDA steps, (2) data cleaning to identify and correct data errors, (3) data screening to understanding data properties that may affect future analysis and interpretation, (4) initial data reporting to inform collaborators about results from the preceding steps, (5) refining and updating the analysis plan based on IDA findings and recommendations, and finally (6) the reporting of IDA in research papers. Discussion topics of the presentation relate to the required metadata, the scope of IDA activities (reporting vs. data manipulations), typical issues to be dealt with during the IDA process, and organizational aspects.