Module 6 Non-Technical Aspects of Data Work

by Patrick Boily, with contributions from Jen Schellinck, Bronwyn Rayfield, and Colin Daniel

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With solid analytical and abstraction skills, individuals with a background in mathematics and statistics are in high demand. The gap between theory (or textbook applications) and real-world uses can prove surprisingly difficult to navigate, however, and can lead to challenges for first-time practitioners.

In this module, learners are introduced to various crucial non-technical aspects of quantitative and/or data work.

Contents

6.1 First Principles
     6.1.1 The Consulting/Analysis Framework
     6.1.2 The “Multiple I’s” Approach
     6.1.3 Roles and Responsibilities
     6.1.4 Consulting/Analysis Cheatsheet

6.2 The Consulting/Analysis Life Cycle
     6.2.1 Marketing
     6.2.2 Initial Contact
     6.2.3 Client Meetings
     6.2.4 Assembling the Team
     6.2.5 Team Meetings
     6.2.6 Proposal
     6.2.7 Contracting and IP
     6.2.8 Project Planning
     6.2.9 Information Gathering
     6.2.10 Quantitative Analysis
     6.2.11 Interpreting the Results
     6.2.12 Reporting and Deliverables
     6.2.13 Invoicing
     6.2.14 Closing the File

6.3 Lessons Learned
     6.3.1 About Clients
     6.3.2 About Consultants

6.4 Business Development
     6.4.1 Basics
     6.4.2 Clients and Choices
     6.4.3 Building Trust
     6.4.4 Improving Trust

6.5 Technical Writing
     6.5.1 Basics
     6.5.2 Components
     6.5.3 Traits
     6.5.4 Example

6.6 Exercises