What is SPSS?
SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) is a computer program used for statistical analysis on quantitative data. In plain English, SPSS software is used for complex calculations to analyze numerical data. It helps people to solve problems using predictive analytics, data mining solutions and statistical analysis. This predictive technology enables us to make better decisions and improve results. SPSS software is used in nonprofit agencies, educational institutions and even in business to analyze numerical data. It performs functions such as regression, which is a form of predictive calculation used to determine the relative effect of a single factor on a situation.
Statistics Program
In addition to statistical analysis, data management (case selection, file reshaping, creating derived data) and data documentation (a metadata dictionary is stored in the datafile) are features of the base software.
Statistics included in the base software:
- Descriptive statistics: Cross tabulation, Frequencies, Descriptives, Explore, Descriptive Ratio Statistics
- Bivariate statistics: Means, t-test, ANOVA, Correlation (bivariate, partial, distances), Nonparametric tests
- Prediction for numerical outcomes: Linear regression
- Prediction for identifying groups: Factor analysis, cluster analysis (two-step, K-means, hierarchical), Discriminant
Versions
Early versions of SPSS were designed for batch processing on mainframes, including for example IBM and ICL versions, originally using punched cards for input. A processing run read a command file of SPSS commands and either a raw input file of fixed format data with a single record type, or a 'getfile' of data saved by a previous run. To save precious computer time an 'edit' run could be done to check command syntax without analysing the data. From version 10 (SPSS-X) in 1983, data files could contain multiple record types.
SPSS version 16.0 runs under Windows, Mac OS 10.5 and earlier, and Linux. The graphical user interface is written in Java. The Mac OS version is provided as a Universal binary, making it fully compatible with both PowerPC and Intel-based Mac hardware.
Prior to SPSS 16.0, different versions of SPSS were available for Windows, Mac OS X and Unix. The Windows version was updated more frequently, and had more features, than the versions for other operating systems.
SPSS version 13.0 for Mac OS X was not compatible with Intel-based Macintosh computers, due to the Rosetta emulation software causing errors in calculations. SPSS 15.0 for Windows needed a downloadable hotfix to be installed in order to be compatible with Windows Vista.
The latest version of SPSS is 19.0 .
Release history
- SPSS 15.0.1 - November 2006
- SPSS 16.0.2 - April 2008
- SPSS Statistics 17.0.1 - December 2008
- PASW Statistics 17.0.3 - September 2009
- PASW Statistics 18.0 - August 2009
- PASW Statistics 18.0.1 - December 2009
- PASW Statistics 18.0.2 - April 2010
- PASW Statistics 18.0.3 - September 2010
- IBM SPSS Statistics 19.0 - August 2010
Acquisition and Name Changes
In 2009, SPSS, Inc. was acquired by IBM, and underwent the process of renaming several of its software programs. The new umbrella name for the entire portfolio of products offered by SPSS, Inc. is PASW, which stands for Predictive Analytics Software. The name change was designed to emphasize the position of SPSS, Inc. as a prominent player in predictive analysis -- software designed to assist the user in predicting future action or circumstances based on collected data.
What IBM offer?
IBM SPSS Statistics StandardFundamental analytical capabilities for a wide variety of business and research questions
IBM SPSS Statistics PremiumA full range of analytical techniques plus structural equation modeling (SEM), in-depth sampling assessment and testing, and procedures for direct marketing.
IBM SPSS Statistics ProfessionalAdditional capabilities to address issues of data quality, data complexity, automation and forecasting
IBM SPSS Statistics for EducatorsSPSS Tutorial
Sources cited from :
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SPSS
3. http://www.ehow.com/about_5459472_spss-software.html
4. http://www.ramayah.com/?cat=3
