The Effective Statistician - in association with PSI Replay: R vs SAS - which is the better tool in pharmaceutical research
What You’ll Learn:
✔ How Thomas and Sam were first introduced to SAS and R — and how their early experiences shaped their preferences.
✔ Key differences in learning curves and the resources available for beginners.
✔ How each tool fares in day-to-day work and long-term maintainability.
✔ Strengths and weaknesses of SAS and R communities — and the events, forums, and support structures that keep them thriving.
✔ The impact of cost, licensing, and open-source vs proprietary models on adoption.
✔ How both tools handle data visualization and producing publication-quality graphics.
✔ Regulatory acceptance: How far R has come in being used for submissions to agencies like the FDA — and what’s still needed for broader acceptance.
✔ Why your choice of tool might also depend on generational trends and the skillsets of new talent entering the field.
Why You Should Listen:
This isn’t just a technical comparison — it’s a candid, practical discussion based on real-world pharmaceutical research experience. You’ll hear about cultural differences between the SAS and R worlds, the business factors that influence adoption, and the ways companies are moving toward hybrid environments where both can thrive.
If you’re making decisions about tools for your team or career, this episode will help you navigate the trade-offs with eyes wide open.
Links:
🔗 The Effective Statistician Academy – I offer free and premium resources to help you become a more effective statistician.
🔗 Medical Data Leaders Community – Join my network of statisticians and data leaders to enhance your influencing skills.
🔗 My New Book: How to Be an Effective Statistician - Volume 1 – It’s packed with insights to help statisticians, data scientists, and quantitative professionals excel as leaders, collaborators, and change-makers in healthcare and medicine.
🔗 PSI (Statistical Community in Healthcare) – Access webinars, training, and networking opportunities.
If you’re working on evidence generation plans or preparing for joint clinical advice, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.
Join the Conversation:
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