Microarray data analysis is the final step in reading and processing data usingproduced by a microarray chip. Samples undergo various processes including purification and scanning using the microchip, which then produces a large amount of data that requires processing via computer software. It involves several distinct steps, as outlined in the image below. Changing any one of the steps will change the outcome of the analysis, so the MAQC Project<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.fda.gov/nctr/science/centers/toxicoinformatics/maqc/ | title = MicroArray Quality Control (MAQC) Project | accessdate = 2007-12-26 | author = Dr. Leming Shi, National Center for Toxicological Research | publisher = U.S. Food and Drug Administration }}</ref> was created to identify a set of standard strategies. Companies exist that use the MAQC protocols to perform a complete analysis.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.genusbiosystems.com/services-data.shtml |title=GenUs BioSystems - Services - Data Analysis |accessdate=2008-01-02 |work=}}</ref>
[[File:Microarray exp horizontal.svg|thumb|800px|none|The steps required in a microarray experiment]]
