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

start sidebar
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

end sidebar

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

click to expand




Six Sigma Tool Navigator(c) The Master Guide for Teams
Six Sigma Tool Navigator: The Master Guide for Teams
ISBN: 1563272954
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2005
Pages: 326

flylib.com © 2008-2017.
If you may any questions please contact us: flylib@qtcs.net