National Statistics Geography Group (NSGG)

The National Statistics Geography Group (NSGG) was established in 2001 to coordinate work on cross-government geographic issues. It aims to provide strategic direction for the development and use of geography in National Statistics (NS), and to coordinate the approach. This includes a number of harmonisation initiatives to standardise the geographically referenced information that is exchanged between government departments. The ONS-led group meets three times a year and involves representatives from a wide range of government departments and organisations.

The NSGG work programme aims to harmonise the approach to geographic referencing. This remit includes the production of geographic standards, eg Standard Names and Codes and Standard Area Measurements. Other work involves formalising the flow of UK geography area data and disseminating detailed geography information and changes to statistical geographies. Maintaining a coherent and coordinated approach to geography is central to the aims of the group. This is achieved by keeping track of other geography harmonisation initiatives and by providing input where appropriate to support the wider use of geographic information. This helps to promote greater knowledge and understanding and ultimately the wider adoption of geography standards.

The geographic standards and approaches that NSGG promote will soon be underpinned by a geography statement in the NS Statistical Integration Protocol. This will be supported by a set of detailed policies, standards and guidance. NSGG will be responsible for ensuring the geography parts are kept up-to-date and relevant.

Other important areas of interest are being taken forward in three subgroups:

Managing statistical geographies

This group is working towards a coordinated approach to managing new statistical geographies. The development of a database containing information on all existing statistical geographies is nearing completion and is expected to be published shortly.

Dealing with boundary change and its impact on statistics

This group is delivering guidance on the implementation of the NS policy on 'Minimising the Impact of Boundary Changes'. This will improve the harmonisation of statistical outputs.

Presentation and visualisation: sharing experience and developing best practice

This group is investigating the requirements and possibilities for presenting and visualising statistical data through maps. The User Guide underpins guidance on geographic standards.

This page last revised: Friday 1 October 2004