The Generic Statistical Information Model Steven Vale UNECE steven.vale@unece.org

What is GSIM? A reference framework of information objects It sets out definitions, attributes and relationships of information objects It aligns with relevant standards such as DDI and SDMX Version 1.0 December 2012 Version 1.1 December 2013 not directly tied to them, nor other concrete implementation details Provides common semantics that can be used unambiguously across and between different implementations

GSIM: Provides common terminology across and between statistical organisations Allows statistical organisations and standards bodies (e.g. SDMX and DDI) to understand and map common statistical information and processes While GSIM is a conceptual model, it can be implemented to different levels. As a reference framework, GSIM Provides over-arching guidance to the development and use of statistical implementation and technology standards. GSIM is not directly tied to any particular implementation standard or technology solution. Where GSBPM defines the statistical production process and sub-processes; GSIM defines the information associated with the statistical production process, including the flows of information, the business rules and process-related quality metrics. GSIM can however be implemented as a standalone framework or integrated with local business process models.

It is a new way of thinking for statistical organizations 4 A conceptual model -explicitly chosen to be independent of design or implementation concerns, It is a communication tool to improve cooperation and excahnge of ideas The aim of a conceptual model is to express the meaning of terms and concepts used by domain experts to discuss the problem, and to find the correct relationships between different concepts. The conceptual model attempts to clarify the meaning of various, usually ambiguous terms, and ensure that problems with different interpretations of the terms and concepts cannot occur. It is a new way of thinking for statistical organizations

Purposes of GSIM Improve communication Enable greater automation Provide a basis for flexibility and innovation Improve efficiency Generate economies of scale

BUSINESS group capture the designs and plans of statistical programmes, and the processes that deliver those programmes EXCHANGE group describes information flowing in and out of statistical organisations, e.g. objects that describe the collection and dissemination of information CONCEPTS group is used to define the meaning of information to provide understanding of what the data are measuring STRUCTURES group is used to structure information throughout the statistical process, so that it can be uniquely and unambiguously identified

Clickable GSIM 10

Clickable GSIM 11

GSIM and GSBPM GSIM describes the information objects and flows within the statistical business process.

To get the maximum benefits from standards-based modernisation, implement GSIM together with GSPBM While GSIM is a conceptual model, it can be implemented to different levels. As a reference framework, GSIM Provides over-arching guidance to the development and use of statistical implementation and technology standards. GSIM is not directly tied to any particular implementation standard or technology solution. Where GSBPM defines the statistical production process and sub-processes; GSIM defines the information associated with the statistical production process, including the flows of information, the business rules and process-related quality metrics. GSIM can however be implemented as a standalone framework or integrated with local business process models.

Mapping GSIM to DDI and SDMX Detailed mapping between GSIM and the information models of DDI and SDMX. Evaluate coherence Resolve unnecessary differences

GSIM SDMX DDI Other relevant standards 1515 Conceptual model GSIM is an umbrella It is a conceptual model, not an implementation model. It doesn’t compete with DDI and SDMX but provides a generic additional layer. As a reference framework, GSIM Provides over-arching guidance to the development and use of statistical implementation and technology standards. GSIM is not directly tied to any particular implementation standard or technology solution. GSIM Conceptual model SDMX DDI Implementation standards Other relevant standards

Version 1.1 Simplified - 150 110 information objects Incorporates revised Neuchâtel Model of classification terminology Better aligned with other standards, particularly DDI

Layers of documentation Brochures Top managers Communication Layer Conference-type paper for information specialists Specification Layer Detailed technical information for implementers

More information GSIM Wiki www1.unece.org/stat/platform/display/GSIM 18