There are several methods to trend data to highlight both the preventative and corrective nature of the system. Plotting data over time is a good visual method to identify trends. Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques such as control charts give an objective method to identify trends. The intention of trending is two-fold, first it is to identify before the system goes out of control the potential for problems. Secondly, it helps to show improvement after a change to the system. Trending analysis can be applied to complaints, process data, nonconformances, CAPA and other quality system data.

Participants in this audio conference gain an increase in their awareness of how trending analysis can be used to report systematic data to management. Beyond graphical methods, the presentation covers statistical methods such as weighted moving averages and low occurrence trending.

This audio conference covers:

• Using run charts to look for overall trends
• How to use a control chart
• Regression analysis
• Moving averages

About the speaker:

Steven Walfish is a statistician at GE Healthcare in Waukesha, WI. In this role Steven is responsible for data collection and analysis of complaint, nonconformance and audit data and metrics. Previously, Steven was President of Statistical Outsourcing Services, a consulting company providing statistical analysis and training to the FDA regulated industries. Prior to starting Statistical Outsourcing Services, he served as the Senior Manager Biostatistics, Non-clinical at Human Genome Sciences in Rockville, MD.

Who should attend?

• Research & Development
• Regulatory Affairs
• Auditing
• CAPA Managers
• Quality Managers
• QMS Managers