4160.0.55.001 - Frameworks for Australian Social Statistics, Jun 2015  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 24/06/2015  First Issue
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WHAT IS A FRAMEWORK?

Frameworks represent an agreed way of thinking about an area of interest, and are therefore valuable in promoting standards, consistency and comparability across data collections and between jurisdictions and sectors. The content, and form, a framework takes will be determined by the nature and scope of the topic, the purpose of the framework, and the perspective of those designing it.

Successful frameworks share some common attributes, such as being:

    · logical in structure
    · comprehensive but concise
    · dynamic and flexible to allow for change
    · cognisant of other frameworks, classifications and standards.

Conceptual and statistical frameworks

The Frameworks for Australian Social Statistics consists of both a conceptual framework and a statistical framework.

Conceptual frameworks

Conceptual frameworks are used to make conceptual distinctions (including definitions of concepts and related terminology) and to provide an organising structure for these concepts. Conceptual frameworks are aspirational - inspiring thinking about what to produce, not what is currently produced - by providing a rationale and structure for thinking about the statistics that are needed. They describe linkages and relationships between concepts. They underpin the collection and analysis of data through promoting coherence, consistency, and clear thinking about the subject. They are used to focus and prioritise resources towards those statistics that matter most.

Statistical frameworks

Statistical frameworks align defined concepts with the information needs of users. This includes linking key concepts to information on how to measure these concepts. Statistical frameworks also include details on key data sources, relevant classifications, methods, variables and indicators. These features help identify important data gaps and areas of duplication.

Combined conceptual and statistical frameworks

Ideally, statistical frameworks are underpinned by a strong conceptual framework. Together, the combination of conceptual and statistical frameworks enhance understanding of the range of statistics by relating them to the underlying conceptual processes, and clearly explaining how each component relates to the overall topic (in this case, social issues).

Conceptual and statistical frameworks also provide a structure for thinking about a 'solution-centred approach' to social statistics.

    · What is the information required?
    · What statistical solutions need to be met?