The Present and Future of Statistics: Challenges and Opportunities

• Activity Number: 536
• Type: Invited
• Date/Time: Wednesday, August 6, 2014 : 2:00 PM to 3:50 PM
• Sponsor: Royal Statistical Society
• Author(s): Marie Davidian*+
• Companies: North Carolina State University
• Keywords: Impact of statistics ; data science ; American Statistical Association ; International Year of Statistics

Abstract

Statistics and statisticians have received a great deal of well-deserved attention in the past few years, fueled by the increasingly data-driven nature of science and society. This focus on our discipline brings with it both challenges and opportunities. The International Year of Statistics did much to raise awareness of the critical role of statistics in the everyday life, and we continue to be highlighted in media accounts and to enjoy considerable opportunities to make contributions in science, business, and government. At the same time, the importance of our discipline can be under-appreciated in some areas of science and in particular in the ongoing discourse regarding data science, where we can add tremendous value. Addressing this challenge and capitalizing on opportunities to promote and celebrate the role of our discipline are key priorities for the American Statistical Association. Through the efforts of all of us, the potential of statistics to have a profound impact on the future of scientific discovery, public policy, and business productivity are unlimited.