Communications Regulatory Authority

In July 2005 AGCOM approved the implementation of a work plan focused on
rating surveys and aimed at improving the way the research system works in
compliance with criteria of fairness, transparency and openness to new technologies.
The work plan involved the following phases:
1. an agreement between AGCOM and ISTAT (the Italian National Statistical
Institute) for the purpose of laying down such tools as can guarantee fairness of
rating surveys and appropriateness of methods used;
2. a technical analysis of the development of new broadcasting platforms and their
impact on ratings;
3. a series of hearings to be carried out with all the parties involved (undertakings,
consumers, survey research firms);
4. adopting a far-reaching policy provision for the purpose of laying down
governance rules aimed at guaranteeing survey independence and neutrality.
In September 2005, with Resolution no. 372/05/CONS AGCOM approved an
agreement with ISTAT aimed at carrying out a methodological research on the quality
of the statistical information spread by the survey on television ratings.
In particular, pursuant to the above-mentioned agreement ISTAT is to draw up three
technical-methodological reports on the following aspects of the Auditel survey:
- the methodology to calculate sampling errors in estimates;
- setting out a system of indicators for the production process quality;
- calculating sampling errors and quality indicators.
The agreement also lays down the setting up of technical-scientific joint
committee composed of seven members (four on behalf of AGCOM and four on behalf
of ISTAT, one of the latter group also being in charge of the project). The Committee
will be responsible for coordinating the research work, establishing the technicalorganisational
methods to carry out the work, and checking its regular progress.
The agreement covers a two-year period as from the signature date, and this term
can be extended upon the parties’ explicit will, notice of which shall be given no later
than three months before the expiry date. AGCOM shall establish the necessary contacts
between ISTAT and the companies entrusted with the task of planning and carrying out
the Auditel survey; these companies shall supply ISTAT – through AGCOM – with the
television ratings survey data and with all information required in order to carry out
analyses and data processing for the drawing-up of technical-methodological reports.
Upon the technical-scientific committee’s favourable advice, AGCOM shall also
put at ISTAT’s disposal either a researcher or a comparable professional profile with
statistical and I.T. qualifications, in charge of carrying out the activities set forth in the
agreement.
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