UNITAR Online Catalogue
Practical methods to implement and uphold the FPOS for producers
Prosperity
United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) (854)
Background
This e-learning course has been developed based on the Guidelines on the implementation of the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics (FPOS) for Producers of Official Statistics. It is designed to provide the practical methods to implement and uphold the FPOS for producers of official statistics so that the National Statistical Systems (NSS) remain relevant, robust, impartial, and aligned with global standards. Moreover, it aims to support producers of official statistics in enhancing the credibility and reliability of official statistics, promoting transparency and accountability in statistical processes, aligning national practices with international standards, and fostering public trust in the NSS.
Learning Objectives
It is expected that, by the end of the course, participants will be better positioned to:
- Explain the origins and history of FPOS’s development and their overall impact so far;
- Discuss the role of FPOS in a changing world;
- Apply the practical steps and methods for the implementation of FPOS;
- Explain how to assess and strengthen adherence to FPOS using evaluation tools and the maturity model to enhance the quality, trustworthiness, and effectiveness of official statistics.
Content and Structure
The course consists of 4 lessons:
- Origins of FPOS
This lesson introduces the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics (FPOS), which serve as the foundation for producing high-quality, impartial, and reliable official statistics worldwide. It explores the historical context and key milestones in the development and global adoption of the Principles, highlights their progressive implementation across national statistical systems, and examines their influence on legal frameworks, ethical guidelines, and international standards. Through the evolution of the FPOS, this lesson underscores their essential role in fostering trust, transparency, and professionalism in the collection and dissemination of official statistics.
- FPOS in a Changing World
Lesson 2 explores how the FPOS remain vital in a rapidly evolving data landscape characterized by new technologies, diverse data sources, and growing pressure for transparency and governance. It examines key areas of transformation—such as data stewardship, legal frameworks, international collaboration, and ethical standards—and highlights the integration of FPOS with modern data management practices, including open data principles, data protection laws, the UN National Quality Assurance Framework (UN NQAF), and the comprehensive frameworks like the Generic Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM) and the Generic Activity Model for Statistical Organizations (GAMSO). The lesson also examines the opportunities and challenges of applying the FPOS to non-traditional data sources, ensuring official statistics continue to serve the public with professionalism, trust, and innovation.
- Practical methods for implementing and upholding FPOS
Lesson 3 focuses on the practical methods required to implement and uphold the FPOS across different stakeholder groups, including national authorities, statisticians, data providers, and users. It explores the key responsibilities and actions associated with the 10 Principles, offering guidance on ensuring relevance, impartiality, professional independence, confidentiality, legal adherence, national coordination, international standardization, and cooperation. The lesson emphasizes how applying the FPOS strengthens trust, credibility, and the quality of official statistics while highlighting the risks associated with non-adherence.
- Ensuring adherence to FPOS
Lesson 4 explores how national statistical offices can implement and assess adherence to the FPOS, using evaluation tools and the maturity model to strengthen trust, improve practices, and manage risks of non-adherence.
Methodology
This e-learning course is developed in English and consists of four lessons. Each lesson is developed around the overall learning objectives and includes an interactive presentation complemented by a set of practice quizzes (“knowledge checks”/formative assessment). The course is followed by an objective graded quiz (summative assessment) to be taken after completing the course to assess the knowledge and skills acquired. The estimated net sitting study time is around 3 hours depending on individual’s pace.
Targeted Audience
The target audience of the e-learning course is producers of official statistics from the National Statistical Systems and other relevant stakeholders.