93296 - Statistical Methods for Business Applications

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide the necessary knowledge for the collection and analysis of data of interest for the management of the firm. The course introduces students to the main statistical methodologies in order to:

- analyze business data for supporting managerial decisions;

- describe sampling techniques to collect data of business interest;

- make use of regression models to investigate the causes of business phenomena and generate forecasts;

- construct indicators for measuring productivity of firms.

The increasing availability of data in the information society has highlighted the need for appropriate methodologies and tools for quantitative decision-making processes. With this in mind, the presentation of statistical methods is always followed by examples and illustration of business cases.

Course contents

1. The Use of Statistics in Business Management

- Availability and production of statistical information

- Internal data sources

- External data sources

2. The Collection of Ad Hoc Data through Sample Surveys

- Probability and non-probability sampling

- Sample selection

- Sampling frames and data collection methods

- Overview of the main sampling designs

- Sample size determination

- Questionnaire design

- Non-sampling errors and data quality control

- Survey cost assessment

3. Measuring Market Phenomena

- Review of simple and multiple linear regression models

- Consumer expenditure and demand for goods and services

- Customer satisfaction

- Market evolution and market potential

- Effects of sales promotions

- Advertising audience measurement

Readings/Bibliography

F. Bassi e S. Ingrassia, Statistica per analisi di mercato. Metodi e strumenti, Pearson, Milano, 2022 (chapters 1-7).

Teaching methods

Lectures.

Students are required to access the University's Virtuale e-learning platform by logging in with their University credentials (using the Log in button in the upper right corner). They should then select All Courses, search for Statistical Methods for Business Applications, and enrol in the course.

Lecture slides and any additional teaching materials will be made available through the Virtuale platform. When necessary, the instructor may also use the course mailing list to send communications concerning the course and examination arrangements.

Assessment methods

Assessment consists of an oral examination lasting approximately 30 minutes, designed to evaluate the achievement of the expected knowledge and skills. During the examination, students are required to answer 5–6 questions. A voluntary mid-term assessment may be arranged during the course.

Registration for the examination is compulsory. Students must register through the AlmaEsami platform in accordance with the University's regulations. Registration before the opening date or after the closing date of the registration period is not permitted. Students who are unable to register are required to contact the Academic Office of their Degree Programme promptly in order to report the issue.

Students with specific learning disabilities (SLD) or temporary or permanent disabilities are encouraged to contact the University's dedicated support service in advance (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en). The service will propose any appropriate accommodations for eligible students. Any accommodations must be submitted to the instructor for approval at least 15 days in advance. The instructor will assess their appropriateness in relation to the intended learning outcomes of the course.

With regard to assessment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools is prohibited. Any use constitutes a violation of the principles of academic integrity.

The final grade is awarded on a scale of 30 points (30/30). A minimum score of 18/30 is required to pass the examination.

Teaching tools

Video-projector and pc.

On Virtuale platform lecture slides and any additional teaching materials will be made available.

Office hours

See the website of Sergio Brasini