A software tool designed for statistical analysis facilitates the application of the Wilcoxon rank sum test (for two independent samples) or the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (for paired samples). This non-parametric method assesses whether two populations have the same distribution, particularly when the assumption of normality required for a t-test cannot be met. Inputting the data sets into the tool typically generates the test statistic, p-value, and effect size, allowing users to quickly determine statistical significance.
This method offers a robust alternative to parametric tests when dealing with ordinal data or data that violates the assumptions of normality. It provides valuable insights for researchers and analysts across diverse fields, from medicine and psychology to engineering and business, by enabling the comparison of groups without being constrained by strict distributional requirements. Developed by Frank Wilcoxon in the mid-20th century, these tests have become essential tools in statistical inference.
