Reproducible research practices: A tool for effective and efficient leadership in collaborative statistics

Abstract

With data and code sharing policies more common and version control more widely used in statistics, standards for reproducible research are higher than ever. Reproducible research practices must keep up with the fast pace of research. To do so, we propose combining modern practices of leadership with best practices for reproducible research in collaborative statistics as an effective tool for ensuring quality and accuracy while developing stewardship and autonomy in the people we lead. First, we establish a framework for expectations of reproducible statistical research. Then, we introduce Stephen M.R. Covey's theory of trusting and inspiring leadership. These two are combined as we show how stewardship agreements can be used to make reproducible coding a team norm. We provide an illustrative code example and highlight how this method creates a more collaborative rather than evaluative culture where team members hold themselves accountable. The goal of this manuscript is for statisticians to find this application of leadership theory useful and to inspire them to intentionally develop their personal approach to leadership.