Statistical Influence

Abstract

Advancing the spread and practice of statistics enhances an organization’s ability to successfully achieve their mission. While there may be leadership mandates to employ statistical methods, often the spread of statistical concepts flourishes more effectively through the practice of statistical influence. At first glance, the term influence may seem to imply a passive and unenthusiastic posture toward promoting organizational change. However, a classical definition states that ,“In a general sense, influence denotes power whose operation is invisible and known only by its effects, or a power whose cause and operation are unseen.” This definition articulates the powerful and yet subtle aspects of influence that embodies the theme of this presentation. Stated plainly, powerful statistical concepts become more widely known and engrained primarily through demonstrated impact; a strategy known only by its effects. In this presentation, elements of statistical influence are exemplified through practice at NASA.