1. A method of selecting a data analysis method in accordance with a user preference, wherein the user preference relates to a feature of the data analysis method and is represented by a fuzzy set comprising a range of values, the method comprising the steps of (i) using the user preference to identify one or more rules corresponding to the user preference, each rule comprising at least one fuzzy set that relates features of data analysis methods to data analysis characteristics; (ii) evaluating the or each identified rule, thereby identifying an instance ef a data analysis characteristic associated with the identified rule, the instance comprising a fuzzy set having a range of values; (iii) retrieving data identifying a plurality of data analysis methods, each of which has a plurality of data analysis characteristics, wherein, in respect of each said data analysis characteristic, the retrieved data includes a range of values; and (iv) comparing the retrieved data with the data analysis characteristic instance in order to identify a data analysis method that matches the user preference.