Tool 22: Breakdown Tree

AKA

Sample Analysis

Classification

Analyzing/Trending (AT)

Tool description

A breakdown tree is used in statistical analysis when population or sample variables need to be displayed and analyzed. Using the breakdown tree format, variables and their respective frequencies, subgroups, and category headings can be easily illustrated.

Typical application

• To break down population or sample variables into more defined subgroups.

• To format data for the purpose of profiling or describing relationships.

• To display data in the descriptive analysis section of statistical reports.

Problem-solving phase

	Select and define problem or opportunity
→	Identify and analyze causes or potential change
	Develop and plan possible solutions or change
	Implement and evaluate solution or change
→	Measure and report solution or change results
	Recognize and reward team efforts

Typically used by

1	Research/statistics
	Creativity/innovation
	Engineering
	Project management
	Manufacturing
2	Marketing/sales
3	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
	Customer/quality metrics
	Change management

links to other tools

before

• Demographic Analysis

• Audience analysis

• Sampling Methods

• Tree Diagram

• Data collection strategy

after

• Pie Chart

• Polygon Overlay

• Pictograph

• Snake Chart

• Bar Chart

Notes and key points

• Do not break down data to fewer than five respondents or units of analysis.

• Report frequencies (in parentheses) rather than percentages. Optional. A frequency distribution table can be constructed showing relative frequency (percent) for listed variables.

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 The researcher organizes and summarizes demographic response data by category and/or variables. See example Demographic Analysis of Design Engineers.

• STEP 2 A tree diagram is drawn with branches representing categories and variables.

• STEP 3 Frequencies (in parentheses) are inserted at respective branches of the breakdown tree.

• STEP 4 All data entries are checked for accuracy by totaling all columns. In this example, they should add up to 122.

• STEP 5 The chart is dated and used in various reports.

Example of tool application