Before you start collecting data, ensure that your improvement goal is clearly defined. Your data collection question should focus on answering a specific inquiry. (Tip: Use one of the 5 W’s or 2 H’s mentioned earlier.) For example, you might ask, “What was the difference between sales last year and this year?” or “What is the defect rate for the Widget Master 5000?”

Next, determine what will be measured (e.g., profits, expenses, returns, defect rates) and how you will measure it. You may decide to analyze multiple metrics. Then, choose the appropriate data collection tools and establish how the data will be recorded.

Once the data is collected, approach the analysis with caution. It’s easy to interpret the data in a way that confirms your expectations. Be sure to double-check your analysis and ensure that any conclusions are genuinely supported by the data.

When visualizing the data, select the appropriate type of visual aid. Sometimes a simple line graph will suffice, while other situations may call for more complex visuals, such as flowcharts or histograms. Aim to use the simplest illustration that effectively conveys the information.