Blog

The hidden heroes of data innovation: why data engineers deserve more love

Let’s be honest, in the fast-paced world of data, analysts and data scientists get most of the limelight. They bring innovative data approaches to policy decisions, present dynamic and interactive data tools, and unveil the insights that make headlines. But in the slightly paraphrased words of the Eurythmics; behind every great analyst, there has to […]

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Horizon scanning and futures thinking: tools for government analysts

Analysts across government are used to drawing on data to explain what has happened to inform decisions about what should happen next. But in an era marked by rapid change and uncertainty, traditional approaches may not be enough. Horizon scanning and other Futures methods can help analysts explore possible long-term changes, examine how trends merge, […]

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Unlock your potential: Ten learning and development resources for government analysts

For Analysis in Government (AiG) Month, we asked the Analysis Function Capability Team what ten items of L&D they would most recommend to government analysts looking to make a positive impact by developing their skills and career…  Here is what they recommended: 1. Career Journeys:  there is no “one size fits all” There are a variety […]

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How AI will reshape government analysis 

Two recent news stories caught my attention: one suggested US tariffs were designed by ChatGPT, another found a UK minister using AI for policy advice. Senior leaders worldwide are likely experimenting. For those of us working in government analysis, this rapid change prompts the question, what does this mean for us? I lead the foresight […]

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The impact of a good blog: A blog about writing blogs!

Calling all analysts!  Let’s talk about the wonder of blogs and why you should write more of them.   As a communications professional, I’ve discovered that blogs are a fantastic way to share your message. They make content personal and engaging, helping readers feel more connected to you and your organisation, profession or department.  Being a […]

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Coding Chronicles: My experience learning how to code

I have been at the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for four years now, working in the Methodology and Quality Directorate (MQD). My early years at ONS were primarily spent conducting qualitative research. So, when I moved to the Methodological Research Hub in MQD and got the opportunity to work on quantitative projects that used […]

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Best practice for automated spreadsheets in R: Creating Accessible Spreadsheets with aftables

What is aftables? aftables is an R package for creating accessible spreadsheets. aftables implements the Analysis Function guidance for releasing statistics in spreadsheets. What does aftables do? aftables automates text formatting and layout of spreadsheets to meet accessibility requirements. Aftables currently generates Excel workbooks using openxlsx. How do I use aftables? aftables is available to […]

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Navigating a career in statistics: reflections from senior leaders

Since 2024, I have enjoyed being the sponsor for a Government Statistical Service (GSS) Fast Stream cohort. It’s been great to hear about the new skills they’ve gained and the experiences they are embracing to set them up for their future careers. In talking to them it’s clear they are ambitious, and rightly so! However, […]

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My apprenticeship journey at the Home Office

I joined the Home Office as a Data Analyst Apprentice in March 2023 and completed my apprenticeship in August 2024. Although I already had a BA in International Affairs, over time, I realised that data science was the career path I wanted to follow. My interest in maths and data led me to complete several […]

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From Curiosity to Cutting-Edge AI: My Journey in Data Science

The first time I encountered the power of data, I was mesmerized. It was not just numbers or statistics; it was a gateway to understanding the world in ways I never thought possible. My journey into artificial intelligence (AI) and data science has been an adventure—one filled with discovery, challenges, and innovation. Today, I have […]

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