This strategy is informed by an environmental analysis which is our understanding of the external landscape that identifies key opportunities and challenges. This approach is grounded in the core values that underpin the CSO’s work. Together, these elements enable the CSO to set out a comprehensive and adaptable strategy capable of responding to an ever-changing external environment.
Key themes are outlined in the table below:
| Environmental Analysis | Strategic Response | Strategy Pillars |
|---|---|---|
| Key Trend No. 1 | ||
| Enhanced Complexity Interdependent societal challenges that require multidimensional statistics, long-term approaches, with solutions in one area often generating challenges elsewhere. |
Multidimensional by Default: Queries raised by National users are now more likely to reflect the complexities of Irish society since policies no longer exist in individual silos. These needs cannot be met by adding more questions to our surveys, so we need to ensure that each division of CSO has the capability to report multidimensionally. Internally Aligned Services: In collaboration with the CPS, CSO has had great success in advancing the NDI, but feedback from service users is that they appreciate sector-specific knowledge in response to their queries for data and services. This is also the preferred model for our new thematic-based divisions. We need to ensure that the service we provide is as domain specific as possible, while aligning the support services of CSO to ensure that the service is delivered in a co-ordinated approach. |
Customer Focussed Insight - Data that Delivers Connected National Data - Integrated Insights Innovation for Impact - Driving New Solutions |
| Key Trend No. 2 | ||
| Trust and Governance Citizens' expectations around transparency, ethical practices, and cultural integrity as foundations of legitimacy. |
Support the Public Interest We have an essential skillset and valuable data resources in a public sector that is seeking to improve outcomes for its customers. While always living our values, we are in a position to support others who are closer to decision making while respecting CSO values of independence, trustworthiness, and confidentiality. |
Trusted Data - Trustworthy by Design |
| Key Trend No. 3 | ||
|
Digital Transformation |
Customer (Not Product) Centric Our international obligations have resulted in a strong focus on statistical products since the means of production is usually laid down in law as well as the information required. Our national users are primarily focused on the most accurate answers to their needs regardless of the underlying data source. In many cases, customers also need help in formulating their demands in the context of the available data |
Connected National Data - Integrated Insights Innovation for Impact - Driving New Solutions |
| Key Trend No. 4 | ||
| Operational Efficiency Reducing duplication and obstacles to increase efficiency, improve citizen experience, and support competitiveness. Supporting public services to deliver strong outcomes supporting value for money. |
Secondary Data First The CSO will adopt a secondary data first principle when planning new statistical outputs based on our experience of using administrative and secondary data to deliver innovative products and reduce respondent burden. There will continue to be requests where new surveys are the only viable option (e.g. for qualitative information or harmonised European statistics). Empowered Staff Investing in our people to strengthen their professional development and empower them to effectively manage and utilise data supported by strong systems, architecture, and skill sets. |
Connected National Data - Integrated Insights Empowering People - Growing Capability |