Date:         Tue, 30 Nov 2010 08:09:24 +0000
Reply-To:     Robert Lundqvist <Robert.Lundqvist@nll.se>
Sender:       "SPSSX(r) Discussion" <SPSSX-L@LISTSERV.UGA.EDU>
From:         Robert Lundqvist <Robert.Lundqvist@nll.se>
Subject:      Guidelines or advice for data management?
In-Reply-To:  <FCCCA0AE02D44769827CDC7034ADE2B5@yourg2asvv4l2m>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

 As a relatively new SPSS user, I have still not found a stable way to organize my files and away to deal with all datasets. What files should be saved and when, and what is the best way to protect the original data and not end up with loads of files? Some people have told me that they never save any variable or value labels, but prefer to keep the basic file unchanged. For each analysis they repeat a syntax sequence to create those lables. Would this be considered as a good approach? Furthermore, if it was my decision, I could probably find a way that suits my personal needs. However, I am in the position where less experienced users come to me for advice in statistical matters, and what should I tell them? What would be a good "data handling praxis" for someone who don't want to use syntax?

There are obviously no correct answer. We are all different, and the needs also differs a lot depending on the actual kind of data. I would still appreciate either suggestions or pointers to links or literature.

Robert
*****************
Robert Lundqvist
Norrbotten regional council
Sweden

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