What should you consider when choosing a statistical consulting service?

1 Credentials and reputation

The first thing to check is the credentials and reputation of the statistical consultants you are considering. You want to make sure they have the relevant education, training, and certification in statistics and related fields. You also want to look for testimonials, reviews, or referrals from previous or current clients who can vouch for their work. A good statistical consulting service should have a portfolio of successful projects and a clear communication style.

2 Scope and cost

The next thing to consider is the scope and cost of the statistical consulting service. You want to have a clear understanding of what services they offer, how they charge, and what deliverables they provide. You also want to compare their prices and value with other options and your budget. A good statistical consulting service should offer a detailed proposal and a transparent contract that outlines the scope, cost, timeline, and expectations of the project.

3 Approach and methods

The third thing to consider is the approach and methods of the statistical consulting service. You want to know how they plan, execute, and report on the statistical analysis and how they handle data quality, ethics, and confidentiality. You also want to know what tools, software, and techniques they use and how they adapt to your specific needs and preferences. A good statistical consulting service should have a rigorous and flexible approach and use appropriate and updated methods.

4 Availability and support

The fourth thing to consider is the availability and support of the statistical consulting service. You want to know how often and how easily you can communicate with them, how they handle feedback and revisions, and how they resolve issues or conflicts. You also want to know how they follow up and provide ongoing support after the project is completed. A good statistical consulting service should have a responsive and collaborative attitude and offer reliable and timely support.

5 Compatibility and rapport

The fifth thing to consider is the compatibility and rapport of the statistical consulting service. You want to know if you can trust them, respect them, and enjoy working with them. You also want to know if they understand your goals, challenges, and context and if they share your vision, values, and standards. A good statistical consulting service should have a compatible and rapport-building personality and culture.

6 Reviews and references

The sixth thing to consider is the reviews and references of the statistical consulting service. You want to know what other people think of their work, how they rate their performance, and what they recommend or warn about them. You also want to know if you can contact some of their past or present clients and ask them specific questions about their experience and satisfaction. A good statistical consulting service should have positive and credible reviews and references.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?