economy

Local Data for Local People: How new data sources are helping to calibrate communities

In this episode of Statistically Speaking we shine the spotlight on local data and look at how good statistics for small areas make for better targeted policy interventions, and more effective use of valuable public resources. 

Read more on Local Data for Local People: How new data sources are helping to calibrate communities

What is GDP and how do we measure it?

Car Factory Engineer in High Visibility Vest Using Laptop Computer in an Automotive Industrial Manufacturing Facility

Gross Domestic Product, more commonly known as GDP, remains the world’s most closely-watched economic indicator. Its growth – or lack of it – is used to measure economic progress. A positive GDP reading suggests an economy is growing, a negative one that it’s slowing down. But there is much more to GDP that just one number. In this post Craig McLaren is our guide to how GDP is calculated and how it’s best understood.  

Read more on What is GDP and how do we measure it?

Basket of Goods 2019 – measuring inflation and tracking changing consumer trends

It’s that time of year when the ONS updates its famous ‘Basket of Goods and Services’. This time around there’s some notable additions and removals, which once again help to underline changing consumer purchasing behaviour.

Read more on Basket of Goods 2019 – measuring inflation and tracking changing consumer trends

Looking after and using data for public benefit

Improved access to datasets including those held by other government bodies will allow ONS to advance its mission of providing the UK with better statistics for better decisions.  But with new data sharing powers comes a heightened responsibility to protect personal information.  As revised policies on the use, management and security of data are published Heather Savory explains how ONS is putting the public interest first.

Read more on Looking after and using data for public benefit