In contrast, when using Excel, you’ll often find yourself preparing the data to complete one function, then having to rearrange the data to complete another. So, if you invest a few minutes to prepare your data, you’ll save lots of time later. Q: Why does Minitab need the data in columns?Ī: It might seem strange at first, but structuring your data into columns provides an extremely versatile format from which you can rapidly analyse your data in lots of different ways. You don’t need to know all of Minitab’s functions to produce simple histograms, Pareto or Run charts for example. But, it’s also very easy to use for a range of basic graphs and statistical tools that are used in Six Sigma. Minitab’s capabilities extend far beyond those required for most Six Sigma projects. Q: Isn’t Minitab for really complex analysis?Ī: Again, yes and no. Then we often cut and paste into Minitab when we need to analyse the data through the use of graphs or other statistical analysis.
#Minitab help software
They will use the statistical software to help you with your.
We generally prepare the data in Excel, and use functions such as Pivot tables to help see what sort of data we have. These experts can help you with the programming and data analysis portion of your Minitab project. At OPEX Resources, we tend to use Minitab and Excel side by side. There are lots of Excel macros available, but we find that Minitab is easier and more flexible, once the data is correctly structured.
For example, have you ever tried to create a histogram in Excel? You’ll need to find a macro to make it easy. In order to create the types of graphs most often used in Six Sigma, you will generally need to use Excel macros. Minitab provides a quick, effective solution for the level of analysis required in most Six Sigma projects.Ī: Well, yes and no. Analysing data is an important part of Six Sigma (but it’s not the whole story!), particularly in the Measure and Analyse phases of DMAIC. Q: Minitab and Six Sigma are often mentioned in the same breath, but what does Minitab actually do?Ī: Minitab is a software package that helps you to analyse data.