In reply to Frank Wyman.

Thanks for the comment, Frank. I find that productivity in a tool is heavily influenced by exposure and practice, plus access to the right capabilities for the job at hand. I use EG for similar tasks that you describe -- almost daily -- and I get them done pretty quickly. But...I really know the tool and the tricks that help me, and that's what I try to share here. We also have a tremendous community that helps learners to become productive. I agree that Marketing Research is a niche where SPSS is popular, although I've worked with folks who developed some good practices with SAS tools.

I'll leave the head-to-head exercises for other folks to figure out. For me, the key is flexible tools, a powerful programming language, and proper training and practice.