What is SAS?

SAS - Statistical Analysis System. The SAS System is one of the most popular Statistical software for all kinds of data analysis. It is a general purpose statistical package designed for both interactive, non-interactive, and batch uses. SAS is the business intelligence software you need to solve complex business problems, achieve key objectives and more effectively manage your information assets.

The origins of SAS date back to the mid 1960s. Originally started by Anthony Barr, the concept was based on the use of algebraic formulas to translate raw data into usable forms. Following a couple years on Barr continued refining the process of his creation then began to work with James Goodnight to expand the framework. Following onto the 1970s the idea of SAS had began to cross over to the business world, during of which more and more people came on board developing and enhancing the system. In 1976 SAS Institute Inc was born making the system widely available.

The software included in the typical SAS system provides tools for all sorts of projects and daily tasks. Writing reports and creating graphics are easy using the tools provided. Research and project management software aids in creating both operational and marketing strategies. Tools that allow for quick and efficient data entry and retrieval make it possible to gather statistics or other information for reports in a quick space of time. The SAS system usually includes components that will aid in departmental functions that range from information systems support to human resources management and even customer care protocols.

SAS has scores of statistical and mathematical functions, scores of statistical procedures, macro facility, very flexible data handling capability, and excellent programming capability. SAS can read data in almost any format (e.g., numeric, alphanumeric, binary, dollar, date, time formats), and can read files created using spreadsheet/data base
software. It also has excellent data manipulation utilities.

Listed below are some of the functionalities of SAS:

-Data transformations-Programming capability
-Macro facility-Matrix manipulation
-Descriptive Statistics-Contingency tables
-Correlation-T-tests
-Univariate & Multivariate ANOVA
-Regression-General Linear Model
-Nonlinear Regression-Logistic Regression
-Probit Analysis-Discriminant Analysis
-Factor Analysis-Cluster analysis
-Multidimensional scaling-Forecasting/Time Series
-Nonparametric analysis-Graphics and graphical interface.

SAS has very few known bugs. Bugs are corrected in a speedy manner as soon as they are reported. SAS offers extensive online help in Display Manager Mode, SAS on microcomputers also have extensive help utility.

SAS Release 6.0 and higher are considered as one of the leading statistical software applications. Graphical interface, multiple engine architecture, etc. are a few examples of the latest technology in the software. The latest version is SAS v9.1 still having the same functions of earlier versions alongside a few new features allowing you to get the most out of your data. SAS is fairly easy to learn. Explanation for keywords and subcommands are available through online help.

You can be sure to find a SAS product/ version or solution whether you specialise in Analytics, Business Intelligence, Compliance, CRM, Data Integration, Financial Intelligence, Risk Management or Sustainability Management. Needless to say whatever your area of expertise, SAS have many products and solutions giving you a tailored made capability whatever your speciality.

SAS is used by hundreds of companies across various sectors including Financial, Marketing, and Management Consulting. Needless to say whatever your business SAS enables you to utilise your data in ways that never crossed your mind.