Page 113 - Contributed Paper Session (CPS) - Volume 3

CPS1955 Solange Correa O. et al.
requirements with support from ONS. This was Phase 1 of the Framework
implementation process.
Phase 2 started in February 2018, when ONS identified the need to expand
the list of MDataGov providers to broaden the MDataGov geographic
coverage and incorporate a distance learning component into the Master’s
programme from the 2019-20 academic year. Provisions that started in Phase
1 are also being reviewed in Phase 2. ONS has adopted a more flexible
approach in Phase 2 by targeting key academic partners in other UK regions
to join the Framework. ONS is currently progressing discussions with other
three UK universities, and Phase 2 is planned to be completed by October
2020.

3. Successes, Challenges and Next Steps:
The launch of the MDataGov programme has facilitated the provision of
advanced data analytics skills across the UK public sector, attracting a
considerable number of students every year and enabling them to bring new
insights to analytical and policy challenges faced by the UK government. As a
result, an increasing number of network initiatives has been organised by this
community and supported by ONS, including an Annual MDataGov
Symposium organised by the students on the programme, a dedicated online
collaboration platform for students, and sponsorship programme for public
sector analysts undertaking the MDataGov programme. ONS has also
welcomed analysts from other National Statistical Institutes to undertake
week-long modules from the Master’s programme and exchange experiences
regarding the implementation and launch of the MDataGov Framework.
The co-ordination and management of a smooth delivery of a Master’s
programme across multiple providers can be challenging. For instance, ONS
needs to ensure attractive value-for-money for the civil service, relevance of
modules for government, a balance between demand and providers, regular
marketing exercise, appropriate in-house training infrastructure, and a flexible
timeline to accommodate universities’ extremely busy periods, among other
factors.
By August 2020, the end of the current Phase 2 of the Framework, ONS
and partners expect to offer an expanded MDataGov geographic coverage, a
distance learning component with at least one academic partner and to have
a third cohort of over 100 civil servants attending the programme.
The MDataGov programme thus plays a central role in enabling the
delivery of the ambitious ‘Better Statistics, Better Decisions’ strategy, making
an impact on the way UK government extracts value from data and enabling
it to make better decisions for the benefit of the public good.

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