Empirical Study

Abstract

This chapter studies the effects of outlier treatment on the outcome of an empirical study. As discussed previously, the study of outliers is closely linked to the study of their sources and, in particular, whether they are real variations or errors. Thus, a well-researched domain can support the research process as other studies can serve for validation. Tourism in Australia is ideal with respect to this criterion as the Tourism industry is well developed. Data are collected in many different areas and a wealth of academic research is available. For the conceptual base, market segmentation is chosen because of its popularity and the availability of empirical data. To minimize influences from the data collection instrument and the recording situation, which could result in errors, analysing past behaviour is advocated as it allows for cross checks through, for example, proofs of purchase such as tickets.