Trustworthiness
Building confidence in the people and organisations that produce statistics and data
Trustworthiness means that the public can have confidence in the people and organisations that produce statistics. It reflects the integrity, professionalism and impartiality of the producers and the statistical system. Trustworthiness signals that statistics are not subject to manipulation or undue influence.
To show you are trustworthy:
1. Show integrity
- Do present and use data and statistics objectively, being impartial and professional
- Don’t withhold or misrepresent data or statistics due to political or commercial influence
2. Lead responsibly
- Do foster evidence-based decision making based on strong, professional analytical skills and promoting TQV
- Don’t rely on biased evidence, be unwilling to listen to diverse views or refuse to adapt to changing circumstances
3. Be transparent
- Do be open about how, when and to whom you will release data and statistics
- Don’t restrict the release of statistics because they make for uncomfortable reading or be reluctant to explain corrections or revisions
4. Manage data responsibly
- Do collect, use and share data in line with legal obligations and ethical principles and be open about choices made
- Don’t ignore the rights of those providing their data or overlook risks to the disclosure of their personal or corporate information
Showing you are trustworthy
An organisation publishing data or analysis wants to demonstrate that its outputs are free from organisational vested interest.
It can show the ‘Trustworthiness principle’ is achieved by describing how it protects its analysis through governance, oversight and appropriate resourcing.
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