Kvalitetsbegrepp och riktlinjer för kvalitets - Statistiska centralbyrån

Comments on accuracy measures
In planning and decision contexts statistics are often, at least in a first round, used so that
reasoning is carried out under the premise that the statistics provide correct values.
However, many users are aware that they may come to more or less misleading
conclusions by disregarding the uncertainty. Those who want to judge the consequences
of uncertainty are in markedly different situations if uncertainty measures are presented
or not. With accuracy measures available, users who are knowledgeable in statistics can
make well - founded judgements of the possible consequences of the uncertainty, and
thereby make appropriate adjustments to their preliminary conclusions.
Accuracy measures are of relevance not least for estimates of change.
3 TIMELINESS of the statistics
concerns the relation of statistics to the current state of
affairs
Users normally want statistics that describe the "now" situation, timely statistics.
The time between "now" and the reference time plays the central role. It depends on
production time, publication frequency and punctuality.
Comment on timeliness
Another important aspect when judging timeliness of statistics is how fast reality
changes. When judging whether statistics are sufficiently up - to - date, the user combines
the "age" of the statistics with his/her own views on the pace of change in the real world
phenomenon under consideration.
3.1 Frequency
Statistics from recurrent surveys are usually produced according to a regular timetable
(monthly, quarterly, annually, etc.). It is then natural to speak of frequency (or
periodicity).
- Survey frequency is the periodicity of reference times.
- Data collection frequency is the periodicity of the producer's data collection.
- Dissemination frequency is the periodicity with which statistics are published.
Usually the three frequencies agree, but they may differ. Users normally care most
about reference time and dissemination frequencies.
Example
The SCB Investment survey illustrates that the frequencies mentioned
above may differ. This survey collects primary data and publishes statis-
tics three times a year, while quarters are reference periods.
3.2 Production time
Production time concerns the time lag between reference time (reference time point
or end of reference period) and publication time.
3.3 Punctuality
Punctuality concerns the agreement between promised and factual dissemination
times.
Comments on frequency, production time and punctuality
Statistics users are commonly anxious that statistics should be available at the "right
time" (e.g. to a prescribed date for decision taking). For a one - time survey the crucial
component is the production time. For recurrent surveys publication frequency and
punctuality are also important.
For economical statistics which affect financial markets, requirements on punctuality and
simultaneity can be as high as fractions of a second.
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