Statistical methods in research and production: with special reference the chemical industry

In scientific and industrial work the correct interpretation of data is of pro found importance, since unless right conclusions are drawn the acquisition of numerical results has little or no value. Statistical methods are an in dispensable tool for solving many of the problems which are encountered in the chemical industry, not only in relation to research and production but also for personnel matters such as sickness and accident rates.

This has been recognised by Imperial Chemical Industries Ltd. for many years, and the use of such methods has been continuously encouraged. As part of this policy of encouragement a team of authors was invited to write a Company book which would not only assist in spreading the use of statistical methods within the organisation, but would also help new staff to acquire a working knowledge of the subject. The authors were allowed to draw freely on Company data, so that the examples would represent genuine problems which had been met in actual practice.