SPSS for biology
Updated January 09, 2018
SPSS for biology
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Modules Used
- IBM SPSS Statistics
Overall Satisfaction with IBM SPSS
I use SPSS to analyze my research data and help students learn to use SPSS through student research projects. It is a very simple interface which makes it easy to use. The only complaint is the the graphs are not great and I use a different software to make graphs for my publications. Otherwise you can find it cited as the statistical package used in all of my work.
- Straight forward and user friendly for simple analysis
- The split file feature allows for rapid analysis of large data sets separated in different ways with a simple click
- Copy and past of tables into excel makes it easy to edit them to make the publication ready
- Graphics are not usable for publication
- Sometimes struggles with really large data sets
Simple format allows for rapid analysis.
confidence in data analysis leading to publication
- My primary focus is scientific research and it has helped with the analysis of biological data, which have been published.
I much prefer SPSS
Using IBM SPSS
3 - SPSS is used for statistical analysis of data collected through scientific experimentation and field studies in the context of coastal restoration and conservation.
Other than some student support I do not provide professional support. When working with students, patience and an ability to go through things slowly are key to helping the student succeed.
- Regression Analysis
- General Linear Models to compare treatments under variable conditions
- Correlation analysis
- Descriptive Stastics for quick analysis of means, standard deviation, variance and check for outliers or errors in the data
- learning commands in the syntax was key for me to move forward with more complex analysis and data sets
- linear models to characterize and test for significant trends in biological variables in relation to environmental variation
- using the syntax to create comparison tables testing for significance
Evaluating IBM SPSS and Competitors
Not Sure - SPSS has remained the primary software, however other options are available including SAS and JMP. Of all of my choices, SPSS is the one I prefer to use, due to its ease of use and plenty of online help for troubleshooting and exploring new analysis.
- Product Features
- Product Usability
- Product Reputation
- Existing Relationship with the Vendor
The user friendly interface that makes it easy to find the analysis I need as well as good instructions in the user manual.
Selection should be made based on both reputation within your specific field as well as the ease of use within the software itself. SPSS has straight tool bars that are well organized and easy to find what you need.
IBM SPSS Implementation
- Don't know
n/a
Not sure - SPSS was already implemented and available when I arrived.
Not sure - n/a
- I was not present during implementation
IBM SPSS Support
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Quick Resolution Good followup No escalation required | None |
No - I have found enough resources on the internet to help me through my problems and / or leaning on colleagues with more experience.
No - n/a
I have never relied directly on IMB for support
Using IBM SPSS
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Like to use Relatively simple Easy to use Technical support not required Well integrated Consistent Convenient Feel confident using | None |
- data transformation and selection or comparison based on cases
- Finding the right test within the analyze toolbar
- It took some time to learn how to use the syntax (paste function), some experience writing code is helpful for this
Not Sure - I have never tried to use SPSS on a mobile device