Discrete data is information that can be categorized into a classification. Discrete data is based on counts. Only a finite number of values is possible, and the values cannot be subdivided meaningfully. For example, the number of parts damaged in shipment.

Attribute data (aka Discrete data) is data that can’t be broken down into a smaller unit and add additional meaning. It is typically things counted in whole numbers. There is no such thing as ‘half a defect.’ Population data is attribute because you are generally counting people and putting them into various categories (i.e. you are counting their ‘attributes’). I know, you were about to ask about the ’2.4 kids’ statistic when they talk about average house holds. But that actually illustrates my point. Who ever heard of .4 of a person. It doesn’t really add addition ‘meaning’ to the description.

(Also seeContinuous Data for alternative data type.)

(iSixSigma.com dictionary)

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J. Jerrald Hayes
I am ex-architectural woodworker and general contractor turned IT, Business and Project Management consultant, software developer wannabe senior division triathlete and ski racer, Yankee fan and founder of Paradigm-360.com, 360 Difference Mac4Construction.com,iOS4Construction.com and now TheBuildingAndRemodelingWiki.com too.
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