What do you do if a coworker disputes your data analysis findings?

If a coworker disputes my data analysis findings, I would first listen to their concerns and seek to understand their perspective. Then, I'd review the data together to ensure accuracy and transparency, explaining my approach and rationale. I believe in collaboration, so I’d encourage open dialogue to address any discrepancies, aiming to reach a mutual understanding based on facts. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the best outcome for the project, so I remain open to feedback and alternative viewpoints.

If a colleague questions my data analysis, I’d first listen to their concerns to understand their viewpoint. Then, I’d suggest we review the data together for accuracy and clarity, sharing my methods as we go. I value collaboration and would encourage an open discussion to address any differences. Ultimately, my goal is to achieve the best project outcome, so I’m always open to feedback and fresh perspectives.

When challenged on your data analysis, begin by listening to your coworker's concerns without interrupting. This shows respect and openness to feedback. Take notes and ask clarifying questions to understand their perspective fully. Active listening may reveal misunderstandings or valuable insights for your analysis.

After hearing your coworker's concerns, verify your data and methodology. Re-examine data sources, calculations, and analytical processes for potential errors or assumptions. Ensuring your findings are based on accurate data reinforces your credibility and shows your commitment to high standards in data analysis.

After verifying your data, discuss your analytical methods with your coworker. Explain the techniques you used and your rationale for choosing them. This conversation may reveal differences in understanding or expectations and provide an opportunity to learn about alternative approaches. Be open to the idea that multiple valid methods exist for analyzing the data.

After verifying your data, it's essential to discuss your analytical methods with your coworker. By explaining the techniques you used and your reasoning behind them, you can uncover any differences in understanding or expectations about the analysis process. This dialogue is a great opportunity to educate each other and explore alternative approaches that might enhance your work. Remember, there can be multiple valid ways to analyze data, so staying open-minded can lead to even better insights!

Aiming for consensus is key in resolving data analysis disputes. Propose a collaborative approach to re-evaluate the findings together, such as reviewing data, re-running analyses, or seeking a third opinion from a colleague or supervisor. The goal is to agree on the most accurate interpretation of the data, which may require compromise or incorporating additional perspectives.

Let's not think about different points of view about analysis as disputes. That frames it as adversarial right from the start. With that mindset, there can be only one winner. Rather, let's see the differences of opinion about data analysis findings as an opportunity for discussion and conversation and, ultimately, the chance to enhance the analysis (and its potential impact) by incorporating the best of both points of view. Analysts (and their stakeholders) need to get better at disagreeing. It's not an argument, nor an attack and subsequent defence. It's a chance for an active conversation and joint exploration drawing on diverse viewpoints. Done well, it leads to better analysis and more impact. Enjoy the experience!