The causes of statistical inconsistencies from the viewpoint of managers and statisticians in centers affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences

Correct statistical data plays a significant role in evaluating the performance of an organization. Managers are mainly expected to use the results of statistical analysis and statisticians are assumed to collect, analyze and interpret the data. This study is aimed at investigating the causes of statistical inconsistencies from the viewpoint of managers and statisticians in centers affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. This is a cross-sectional study in which 113 managers and statisticians working in centers affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences participated. They were selected based on census on researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect data. The items in the questionnaire were designed to reveal the six causes of statistical inconsistencies. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used via SPSS 19. The highest means for the causes of statistical inconsistencies were as follows: rules and directions (m=3.95±0.63, P=0.003), coordination (m=3.90±0.71, P=0.042), management (m=3.89±0.63, P=0.285) and control and supervision (m=3.87±0.72, P=0.597).These were among the main causes of statistical inconsistencies. The means associated with rules and directions, coordination and factors involved in the process of producing and presenting statistics (P<0.001) had meaningful statistical difference among the investigated groups. Regarding the main causes of statistical inconsistencies in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences from the viewpoint of statisticians as producers and managers as consumers, these causes were associated with rules and directions, coordination, management, control and supervision. Therefore, detailed plans are required to minimize and eliminate these causes.