Date:         Fri, 17 Aug 2007 18:00:29 -0500
Reply-To:     Craig Johnson <cjohns38@gmail.com>
Sender:       "SPSSX(r) Discussion" <SPSSX-L@LISTSERV.UGA.EDU>
From:         Craig Johnson <cjohns38@gmail.com>
Subject:      SPSS Production Facility
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=WINDOWS-1252

I'm looking for some help using the SPSS Production Facility.

Background

Right now we are running through some different methodologies across
several data sets.  Each data set has different variables and has been
collected at different periods of time.  However we have went through
each data set and renamed a bunch of variables so each data file can
use the same generic syntax.  The trick now is to use the production
facility to automatically open each data file, run the syntax, and
save the output. By using the production facility we'll be able to
change the syntax in a single place, rerun the production facility,
and get an updated set of results across X studies.

Features

1)      It would be nice to have this all wrapped up in as few as possible
syntax files.  Ideally it would be our testing syntax and a syntax
file which opens the various data set.  (IE I realize I could make a
test syntax file for each data set we have and then add them all to
the production facility but that means I'd have to change the syntax
in N number of places for the number of data sets we have.  Not the
best solution….need something more generic for future use.)

2)      Ideally I'd be able to save an aggregate of the output.  IE if I
run the syntax on 100 studies the output is all saved in one output
file not 100 of them.  If this is possible I'd need to insert a title
or something which designates where the output starts and stops for
each file. If this isn't possible then I'd like to be able to save the
output file with the name of the data file.  Suggestions welcome as
I'm back and forth on the best way to do this….. =(

Solutions?

So……….oh guru's of the SPSS production facility how about some help? I
mean I'm pretty sure I could brute force this thing into working but
it will probably end up making me spend a lot more time on this then
needed.  =) Help!