What types of data should Maria include in her report for her manager?

In crafting her report, including both qualitative and quantitative data is essential because it provides a comprehensive view of the subject matter. Quantitative data, which consists of numerical information, offers measurable and easily analyzed insights that can help in understanding trends and patterns. For example, sales figures or customer satisfaction scores can be effectively presented using statistics that demonstrate how a business is performing over time.

On the other hand, qualitative data enriches the report by adding context and depth to the numbers. This type of data, which includes descriptive information such as opinions, experiences, and narratives, helps to explain the "why" behind the statistics. For example, customer feedback may reveal why sales have increased or decreased, providing an opportunity to understand customer sentiment and areas for improvement.

Combining these two types of data enables a more nuanced analysis and makes the report more impactful. It allows the manager to make informed decisions based on a fuller picture of the situation, rather than relying solely on a single dimension of data.