The question asks to compute the sample mean for the given data set: 17, 23, 14, 12. Let's find the sample mean by following these steps:

1. Sum all the data values: $17 + 23 + 14 + 12 = 66$

2. Count the number of data values: There are 4 values in the data set.

3. Divide the sum by the number of values: $\text{Sample Mean} = \frac{66}{4} = 16.5$

The sample mean, rounded to one decimal place, is 16.5.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions for practice:

1. How do you calculate the sample mean for a different set of numbers?
2. What is the difference between sample mean and population mean?
3. How does outlier affect the sample mean?
4. How would you compute the median for the same data set?
5. How can the sample mean be used in real-world scenarios?

Tip: Always ensure to round your final answer according to the given instructions, such as to one decimal place in this case.