How to measure data in more ways than just graphing, and what those measurements tell us. You may or may not be a hockey fan or any other sports fan for that matter, but statistics plays a huge role in people and businesses making decisions. Just think of it. Why do you choose to purchase a specific type of computer, cell phone, sneaker, or clothing? Could it be you listen to what others say about a particular brand or do you read the reviews for the products? Maybe it's because everyone you know has that brand. Why do you suppose that is? How do businesses know what you want? It all boils down to what the numbers show - statistics. How do you suppose Michael Jordan got the fame he earned? Other than just being a "good player," there were numbers backing up his plays, which led to his recognition and ultimately teams desiring to have him join them. The same holds true for anyone or anything, just like a business deciding what product to make and the quantity.

Now, search the internet for statistical data pertaining to the use or consumption of a product or service you are interested in and compare it to another product or service. Determine how the data relates to sales or service. For example, you could search for the percent of Android users vs. Apple users. Or, you could search for the number of Twix candy bars sold vs. Milky Way candy bars.

Then, address the following questions in your discussion:

1. What did you search and what did you find? 2. Provide the data you found? 3. Did you expect to find what you did? Why or why not? 4. How would businesses use this information?