Which factor must be considered for data to be defensible?

For data to be considered defensible, documentation of the process is essential. This means there must be a clear, traceable record of how data was collected, processed, and analyzed. Documentation serves several critical purposes: it provides transparency into methodological approaches, allows for independent verification of results, and ensures that any findings can withstand scrutiny from stakeholders or regulatory bodies.

Having thorough documentation means that there is a solid foundation upon which the data can be defended, as it demonstrates adherence to established protocols and practices. Well-organized documentation includes details such as study protocols, data collection methods, and quality control measures, which collectively validate the integrity of the data.

While job expectations, applicant interviews, and compliance with legal regulations are certainly important elements of a robust process, they do not, by themselves, adequately ensure that data can be defended. Documentation is what ties all elements together and substantiates the defensibility of the data produced.