The OECS in collaboration with the World Bank convened a one-week regional workshop on data dissemination, from 19th – 23rd March, 2018, at the Radisson Hotel in Grenada. Anguilla was among fifteen (15) countries in the region represented at the workshop.
The workshop aimed to introduce tools and techniques for preparing statistical data analyses and disseminating microdata, to support the implementation of the OECS Regional Strategy for the Development of Statistics (RSDS).
The Data Dissemination Workshop included theoretical and hands-on training in the use of ADePT (an open source tool for standardizing the production of analytical reports from surveys). It helped the participants build their knowledge and technical capacity in the use of this programme. The participants learned how to create tables in ADePT and worked in groups to analyze the data in the tables created.
The participants were also introduced to microdata anonymization techniques that can help to reduce disclosure risks within their respective National Statistics Agencies, facilitated through R Studio using sdcMicro Graphic User Interface (GUI). Discussion also took place about the benefits and limitations of the various microdata anonymization techniques.
The workshop also included a brief review of Survey Solutions, which is a Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) technology, developed by the World Bank to improve data quality, increase data availability and reduce data collection costs, therein reducing the use of the traditional paper and pencil interviewing (PAPI) approach. The Anguilla Statistics Department collects data through a number of surveys for which this technology would be considered. Participants shared their experiences with Survey Solutions to assess the benefits and challenges.
The Data Dissemination Workshop assisted in further developing the skills needed to produce timely, accurate and reliable data, once the resources are made available, as well as; developing techniques to reduce the risks of identifying respondents; and securing public trust through data anonymization.
Anguilla was represented by Senior Statistical Officer Dilece Connor and Statistical Officer Brittany Christopher, whose participation was sponsored by the OECS and the Government of Anguilla.