Sampling definition
/What is Sampling?
Sampling is a technique used to arrive at a conclusion about a population by selecting and examining a small proportion of that population. The number of items to sample is determined via a statistical analysis, with samples being selected on either a random or systematic basis. The intent is to arrive at a representative sample that reflects the characteristics of the population from which the sample is drawn.
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How Sampling is Used in Auditing
Auditors use sampling to verify financial record information, as part of their process of rendering an opinion about a client's financial statements. This is a key auditing tool, since it allows an auditor to complete an audit in a cost-effective manner that might otherwise not be possible without charging a much higher audit fee to the client. Without sampling, it would be extremely difficult for an audit team to complete an audit within a reasonable period of time, and at a price that the client can afford to pay.
How Sampling is Used in Marketing
Sampling of a targeted customer group can be used to learn more about the needs and preferences of prospective buyers. As long as the sample size is sufficiently large and is representative of the underlying population, sampling can be a cost-effective way to learn about a target population.
How Sampling is Used in Polling
Sampling is used in polling to gather opinions or data from a small, representative group of people to make inferences about a larger population. Instead of surveying every individual—which is often impractical—pollsters select a sample that reflects the demographics and characteristics of the whole group, such as age, gender, location, and political affiliation. This sample is carefully chosen using methods like random sampling or stratified sampling to reduce bias and increase accuracy. The responses from the sample are then analyzed and used to estimate the views or behaviors of the larger population, with a margin of error to account for possible differences. Proper sampling is crucial to ensure poll results are reliable and meaningful.
How Sampling is Used in Quality Assurance
Sampling is used within the quality assurance function to determine whether a product batch is within its design parameters.