Interpreting the Survey Data

The following special terms are used in the data analysis:
   Base: The total responses in a given category
   Mean: The value computed by averaging the responses
    Median: The value half way down the range of responses (e.g., if 57 responses are arranged from high to low, the median would be response # 29). The median is given only in the narrative summary. The National STC survey reports only the mean.
   Min: The lowest value reported in the category
   Max: The highest value reported in the category

The survey solicits salary information categorically. For example, if a respondent earns $51, 475 per year, he or she selects the answer "50,001-55,000" from a multiple-choice list. Therefore, the Min and Max are reported as the midpoint of the lowest and highest selections.

The survey method is direct as opposed to random-sample. The survey is based on salary data for the year October 2000 through October 2001.

Compensation Analysis and Demographics

This report includes data that is appropriate for compensation analysis and data that is appropriate for demographic analysis. The two should not be confused. Compensation analysis is appropriate for a single job function. Demographic analysis includes data from all job functions.

Other Factors in Compensation

This report provides information sorted by commonly used categories. However, many qualitative factors can influence compensation: technical knowledge, the practices of a specific industry (semiconductor, software, medical), and so on. This report should be used as a tool, not an authority.