DataFerrett Users' Guide

Chapter 5 - Overview of Major Functions

Introduction

IN the Introduction to DataFerret many reference links are available to the user. These links go to outside web sites describing and explaining data and their components. The most exciting new feature in DataFerrett is the DataFerrett Discussion Forum. This is a great opportunity for users and subject matter experts to interact regarding the use of data.

The Step 1 of DataFerrett consists of the searching and browsing data and the data values. The full functionality will be fully explained in the following chapters.  Below is a brief overview of what these tabs contain.

Step 1: Select Dataset & Variables

Step 1 is the starting point of using the DataFerrett microdata, aggregate, time series or longitudinal data.  This is where you will search for topics or select the dataset you wish to use.  From this point you also can explore variables in more depth, select variables and select specific values of variables of your choice. You must select variables items before you will be able to do anything in Step 2.

Step 2: DataBasket/Download/Make A Table

DataBasket

As you are selecting variables from the codebook, you will be alerted to the fact that you have added a number of variables to your databasket. In Step 2 you will see all the variables you have chosen, and you are able to perform several more functions with your data if you wish. You can recode a highlighted variable, modify your variable which will pop up the Ferret Browse Variable window (again), delete an unwanted/unneeded variable, or attach / adjust an advanced SQL where statement to any or all of your variables in your databasket. More detail is given in Chapter 10 on Recoding a Variable

Download / Extract Data

Many data users use other software to work with data. DataFerrett has incorporated the capability to download into several formats as well as maintaining some of the data on the DataFerrett FTP site. Chapter 11 discusses the Download capabilities of DataFerrett.

Make a Table

After you have all the variables you want in your Data Basket, you select the Make A Table button to get the data on a spreadsheet.  This function allows you to create your own custom tables and graphs or maps. More detail is given in Chapter 12: Make a Table.

Please Note:  You must always begin at the Step 1: Select Dataset & Variables tab. However, once you have selected items and saved them to your databasket, you can go back and forth between Step 1 and Step 2. For example, after creating a table from your first selections, you can go back to the Step 1 to search for more items to add to your Data Basket and put them into your table.

Mapping Selected Data

In DataFerrett certain geographical data can be displayed in a map. Chapter 14 has information on creating a map in DataFerrett.