Understanding the needs, priorities and views of users and other stakeholders is an essential part of the work of Beyond 2011.
Only by properly identifying the real requirement for data, and understanding users’ views on the different options as they emerge, will we be able to make sure that our final recommendations provide the right way forward.
The User Needs Consultation, which closed on 20th January, was aimed at acquiring a clear understanding of users' needs and priorities.
The views expressed in response to this consultation will be critical in determining how we develop the assessment criteria that will be used to judge the different options being considered.
A second consultation providing an opportunity to comment on the different options being considered will take place during 2013, by which time we will know a great deal more about the outputs and quality resulting from different approaches.
Our final recommendations (in 2014) will be informed not only by the costs and statistical viability of the potential solutions, but also by a consideration of the public burden and public acceptability of each model.
These consultations are, however, only a part of an ongoing dialogue planned with data users and suppliers.
Over coming months we will be contacting and hoping to meet all key central government departments as well as representatives of local government, the private sector, community groups and a range of special interest user groups.
If you have an interest in our work and would like to discuss further with us please contact us at beyond2011@ons.gov.uk.
Alternatively if you would like to share your views on the Beyond 2011 Programme you can join the conversation on the Royal Statistical Society Statistics User Forum.
