Using an integrated software package for clinical data analysis on a microcomputer

An integrated software package was used effectively for entering, organizing and analyzing clinical research data on a microcomputer. Both the database and the spreadsheet components of the package were used in the process. The database component enabled a form to be created for entering the data. The spreadsheet component was used in the organization and analysis of data. Macros were written within the spreadsheet environment for the statistical analysis of data. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how an integrated software like Symphony could offer features beyond simply the use of a spreadsheet for the analysis of research data. Also highlighted are the other useful features of the integrated software that are not directly related to data analysis.