Research Software

SAS

SAS  is a comprehensive package that will perform all data management tasks a researcher could need. The most comprehensive list of statistical procedures is available on this system. However, the downside is its lack of a user-friendly interface and somewhat steep learning curve. Although some things are available through pull down menus and dialogue boxes, it is essentially a code-driven system. SAS can be downloaded from the Virtual Lab. If SAS is not compatible with your OS, then you can use SAS on the classroom or library PCs.

IBM SPSS Statistics

IBM SPSS Statistics is adequate for data management and statistical analysis for most research projects. It has many of the same capabilities as SAS but scores high points on user friendliness. This tool is recommended over SAS for most research projects involving data analysis. IBM SPSS Statistics is installed on all public workstations on campus. For faculty to use this tool on a computer on/off-campus, please borrow installation disk from the ATC.

SPSS Text Analysis for Surveys

SPSS Text Analysis for Surveys (ver 3.0) is designed specifically to analyze qualitative data produced from surveys, i.e. comments and responses to open ended questions. The software integrates with SPSS statistical software, but can also be used independently.

STATA

STATA is an alternative to SPSS and SAS that is useful for certain data management and statistical needs. We have an agreement with STATA for a limited number of users. Therefore, for most projects, SAS or SPSS is recommended. Stata is available for on-campus use from the Virtual Lab.

AMOS

AMOS performs structural equations modeling and is from SPSS. Faculty and students can check out AMOS installation disk from the ATC front desk.

MatLab

MatLab is a powerful tool for mathematical and technical computations. Faculty and students can run MatLab from the Virtual Lab on campus only.

Minitab

Minitab is an easy-to-use statistical software program that is ideal for classroom use or research projects that do not require the analytical and computational power of SAS or SPSS. Faculty and students can install Minitab from the Virtual Lab for on campus use only.

NVivo

NVivo  is software for qualitative research and textual analysis. With excellent visuals, flexibility, and user-friendliness, NVivo is superb for organizing and analyzing text based data, such as interview transcripts. Faculty and students should contact Maria Skaletsky (mskaletsky@bentley.edu) to get license and dowload information.

XSight

XSight is a new, user-friendly software package for qualitative research from QSR, the company that brought you NVivo. It is designed to organize and analyze data from focus groups and interviews with or without the use of transcripts. Bayar “Tumen” Tumennasan or Maria Skaletsky of the ATC can provide a demo. For more information: http://www.qsr.com.au/ or contact the ATC. Faculty and students can check out NVivo installation disk from the ATC front desk.