Page 388 - Special Topic Session (STS) - Volume 2

STS507 Vince G. et al.

Adding statistical value in a rapidly changing
government data “Eco-system”
Vince Galvin, Charlie Russell, Joe Winton
Statistics NZ, Wellington, New Zealand

Abstract
New data sources, new data analysis methods and new tools provide
considerable opportunity to improve the design and implementation of public
policy programmes. However, the technical challenges of making
improvements have to be put in the context of all the institutional
arrangements that have always made realising the potential of using data
challenging. This paper will describe the experiences of Statistics New Zealand
in working with other Government agencies to find a mix of principle
statements, standards, creating networks and developing capabilities. The
central themes will be that of trying to come to grips with the complexity of
policy environments and trying to find practical ways ahead.

1. Introduction
This paper discusses Stats NZ’s journey so far as a National Statistical
Office (NSO) as we broaden our role in New Zealand’s data system. It aims to
look at this experience through a technical statistical lens. It examines the role
that Stats NZ has played as the wider New Zealand Government works through
how to realise the potential of new data sources, methods and tools.
It highlights the criticality of some points that have been important to what
has happened in New Zealand:
 the acquisition of a mandate for Stats NZ to take on a wider role in leading
the wider Government.
 the “game changing” nature of the having a centerpiece development like
the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI).
 the opportunities to participate and influence large scale data analysis
projects and initiatives.
This paper is a discussion of our experiences to date, followed by some
reflections on what we have learnt from the activities we have undertaken.

2. Context of Statistics New Zealand’s role in the wider data System
Stats NZ received an explicit mandate to be a leader of the NZ Government
wide data system. Since the establishment of the Government Chief Data
Steward (GCDS) role in 2017, Stats NZ has worked in partnership with
government agencies to:

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