Theresa L. Utlaut, 2011 Q&P Program Chair
Sun, sand, and statistics! Miami Beach is the destination for this year’s Joint Statistical Meetings. The Q&P Section has organized one invited paper session, three topic-contributed panel sessions, and five roundtables. The invited session touches on one of the hottest national topics: health care. Four speakers will share their knowledge and experience with “Quality Issues in Health Care.”
The three topic-contributed panel sessions also will be of interest to section members. The winning results from the Q&P sponsored student competition is one of the topic-contributed panel sessions. Stefan Steiner from the University of Waterloo worked with teams of students and their faculty mentors to optimize a virtual factory process. The winning team consists of three students: Long Luo and Yalan Hu from Southern Methodist University and He Yang from Mississippi State University. Their faculty mentor is H. K. Tony Ng from Southern Methodist University. The students will present their methodology and results for optimizing the Watfactory process.
Another topic-contributed panel session is titled “Optimal Design of Experiments for Multiple Objectives.” This session will focus on screening experiments, response surface designs, choice experiments, and robust parameter designs through a series of examples that outline the process for deciding which design criteria to consider and how to implement computer algorithms for obtaining the optimal designs. The purpose is to illustrate that it is often possible to find a design that is near optimal for the primary objective, but has superior performance across the suite of all objectives.
The third topic-contributed panel is “In Over Our Heads? Demystifying Complex Problems with Statistical Engineering.” This is a continuation from a session at JSM 2010 that will focus on how to best use statistical theory for practical benefit in solving complex challenges. A discussion about statistical engineering (the art of applying statistical and probabilistic methods and techniques supporting research and the production of standard reference materials) will solidify the discussion.
A.M. and P.M. Roundtables
Roundtables provide an opportunity for networking and discussing relevant statistical topics while enjoying a meal with colleagues. Willis Jensen will lead “Effective Statistical Training in Industry.” Alyson Wilson, along with other participants, will discuss practical issues related to Bayesian reliability. Stefan Steiner will guide a discussion about how to add excitement to the necessary task of measurement system assessment. Daksha Chokshi will explore lessons learned from successful manufacturing and Six Sigma design applications in “Quality Excellence in Design and Manufacturing: A Roadmap to Customer Delight.” And Jennifer Van Mullekom will help participants answer the question, “What Is a Statistical Engineer, and Do I Want to Be One?”
For details about these sessions, visit the JSM online program.
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